Ivan Ivan
All right, here’s where things get a little interesting. Personally, I didn’t see Ivan coming. I don’t think very many people saw him coming. Ivan was a pleasant surprise at camp this year, but he hasn’t been the type of player you think could be an interesting option. He’s the type of player who’s basically muscled his way into a roster spot.
Daily Faceoff shows Ivan as the fourth-line left winger. I think that’s a perfect spot for him. He’s the “little engine that could” type of player. He’s tenacious, persistent, and plays hard every shift. In fact, Ivan most likely cost Pierre-Edouard Bellemare and Chris Wagner a roster spot.
A fourth line consisting of Ivan, Parker Kelly, and Joel Kiviranta has the potential to become a very dangerous unit for the Colorado Avalanche.
Now, there is one argument for Ivan heading down to the AHL: He’s waivers-exempt. In other words, he doesn’t have to clear waivers in order to play for the Eagles. However, I think that’s a weak argument. There’s no sense in keeping Ivan in the minors in favor of someone like Bellemare.
In my estimation, Ivan has already made the team. Otherwise, Wagner would not have been sent down. Ivan will get a decent shot at making an impression this season. He should get every opportunity to show he belongs in the NHL.
In fact, it wouldn’t be a stretch to think that Ivan might have a shot at the Calder this season. With everyone picking Macklin Celebrini, many could overlook someone like Ivan. Ivan, with his unique name, seems poised to take the NHL by storm.