In a recent interview, Toronto Maple Leafs’ head coach Sheldon Keefe was asked how he thought Calle Jarnkrok was fitting into the first line. His response was: “He’s fit in really well!’

In an interview several days ago, Keefe had hinted that Auston Matthews had come to him asking that Jarnkrok be moved to the first line and stay there for a while. Keefe complied with that request.

In the video below from yesterday – after the Maple Leafs’ 6-2 win over the Florida Panthers, Keefe expanded his answers to questions about why Jarnkrok has turned out to be such a good fit on that line.

Keefe Praises Jarnkrok’s Contribution to the Maple Leafs’ First Line

Keefe praised Jarnkrok’s fit with Matthews and Marner on the team’s top line. In the interview, Keefe spoke about how much he’s enjoying Jarnkrok’s game on the Maple Leafs’ top line. Since Jarnkrok was placed on that line, he’s responded with some of his best hockey of the season. In fact, Jarnkrok is having a career season.

In the interview, Keefe outlined a number of reasons why Jarnkrok fits so well with Matthews and Marner. He also outlined Jarnkrok’s contribution to the Maple Leafs’ success.

Related: Three Takeaways from Maple Leafs’ 6-2 Win Over Panthers

Five Reasons Jarnkrok’s Been So Valuable to the Team

Reason One: His Skill Set

Jarnkrok’s skill set complements that of Matthews and Marner. He plays with poise, can make plays, and is willing to shoot the puck. This allows Matthews and Marner to have a skilled and reliable linemate who can contribute to their offensive play.

Auston Matthews, Maple Leafs

Reason Two: His Goal-Scoring Ability

Jarnkrok’s not afraid to shoot the puck and gets himself in positions to score. He has a good shot and is always looking for opportunities to put the puck in the net. This makes him a dangerous offensive threat and a great addition to the top line.

Reason Three: His Efficient Game

Jarnkrok’s game is efficient and effective. He forechecks and backchecks well, is good in defensive zone walls, and plays a smart game. This allows him to contribute to the team’s overall play and makes him a valuable asset to the top line.

Reason Four: His Ability to Defend

Playing with Matthews and Marner means facing difficult matchups against other teams’ best players. Jarnkrok has shown that he is able to defend and play against these top players. This makes him a reliable two-way player and a good fit for the top line.

Reason Five: His Work Ethic

Jarnkrok works hard and plays a smart game. He is willing to do what it takes to contribute to the team’s success and has shown a strong work ethic on the ice. This makes him a good fit for the Maple Leafs and a valuable addition to the top line.

Related: Remembering Maple Leafs’ Goalie Jonathan Bernier

Jarnkrok Has Contributed to the Maple Leafs’ Success

The Maple Leafs’ Calle Jarnkrok is fitting in well alongside Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner on the top line. Why? Because he has a complementary skill set, goal-scoring ability, efficient and effective game, ability to defend, and strong work ethic.

Mitch Marner of the Toronto Maple Leafs

Jarnkrok’s poise, playmaking ability, and willingness to shoot the puck make him a dangerous offensive threat. At the same time, his defensive skills make him a reliable two-way player against other teams’ top players. Overall, Jarnkrok’s contributions to the top line have been praised by head coach Sheldon Keefe.

Jarnkrok has turned out to be a keeper for this Maple Leafs’ team.

Related: YOU GOTTA LOVE EX-MAPLE LEAFS’ GOALIE JACK CAMPBELL

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