Dunkler’s entire game is built around being exactly where his teammates need him to be, even if they don’t know they need him there. Sometimes he gets called “the invisible man” because you don’t even notice he’s out there. Not missing an assignment, not dogging it getting into the zone. Always on his mark and always in a predictable spot on the ice. It’s not as noticeable as a pep talk on the bench or in the locker room. However, when things are moving a million miles a minute, it’s great to have a lifeline. Sometimes it is an outlet pass to get you away from that persistent forechecker. Sometimes it’s a timely pass breakup when you missed your check and they got a 2 on 1 the other way. Dunkler’s stats certainly don’t read as someone who has mastered the game yet. But to really know the impact of the little things, you’d need to ask his teammates.
WC: 159