**Wild Fans Question Power Play Choices Amid Zeev Buium’s Rise**
Key Takeaways:
- Zeev Buium, a top NHL prospect, is making headlines for minimal power play usage with Team USA.
- His limited role contradicts expectations given his strong NCAA performance.
- Hockey analysts and fans are debating development strategy ahead of NHL Draft.
St. Paul, Minnesota — Rising hockey star Zeev Buium is trending after fans and analysts questioned why he isn’t playing a more prominent role, particularly quarterbacking the power play, for Team USA at the 2024 IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship.
Top Defenseman Gets Reduced Ice Time
Zeev Buium, widely considered one of the top defensemen eligible for the 2024 NHL Draft, has seen limited minutes on the power play, despite his offensive upside. Playing for the University of Denver, Buium earned All-American honors and logged 50 points in 38 games—a standout campaign for an 18-year-old defenseman. But during Team USA’s group-stage games this week, coaches opted for other defensemen to run the power play units.
Scouting Hype Raises Usage Questions
This move puzzled fans and scouts. Buium, currently ranked among the top 10 in most draft boards, is praised for his composure, finesse, and vision—key qualities for a power play quarterback. Many believe this conservative usage may be part of a larger development strategy or an effort to balance ice time across the team. Still, the discrepancy between his NCAA dominance and international role is fueling speculation, reflected in over 1,000+ daily Google searches on his name as of May 6, 2024.
Draft Implications and Summer Outlook
With the NHL Entry Draft approaching in late June, scouts are paying close attention to Buium’s usage and performance. While his power play minutes remain limited, he continues to log solid 5-on-5 play. The buzz could impact not just his draft slot but also how teams envision integrating him into their rosters. Front offices may see a potential high-upside offensive defenseman with untapped special teams potential, adding to his intrigue heading into summer team interviews and mock drafts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is zeev buium trending?
A: He’s receiving limited power play time in international play, despite being a top NHL draft prospect.
Q: What happens next?
A: His role in the next rounds of the IIHF U18 tournament and the upcoming NHL Draft in June will be closely watched.
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