After an incredible start to the season, Blues forward Jake Neighbours had 7 points; 6 goals and 1 assist. Getting injured was one of the worst things that could have happened to him for the season. When he returned to the lineup, the question wasn't if he could contribute, it was if he was able to match and re-find his tempo from the start of the season. Since his return, he has recorded 5 points; 2 goals and 3 assists. The question remains, where is his game headed?
Since returning from injury, Neighbours has looked solid and is quickly returning to his performance at the beginning of the season. His first few games back were cautious, making sure not to reinjure himself, but recently, he has been looking more confident. He's skating faster, carrying the puck with more confidence, and is setting up good plays as well as executing.
Neighbours game is improving each game, and he is looking to become a key player on this Blues roster. His net-front presence, forecheck, and creativity are all reasons he will be an x-factor one day. However, he isn't quite there yet. Neighbours still have some improvement and work to do.
If he is able to continue to use his skills and add points to his score sheet, he will be able to form into an X-factor. If he uses his confidence, increases momentum, and adds more points, he will become an x-factor faster than most can see coming.