Texas-Sized Talent: Lian Bichsel’s Big Strides to NHL Readiness

(Credit: Andy Nietupski/Texas Stars)

As Lian Bichsel chased a puck into the corner on his first AHL shift of the season, he could easily have used his superior reach to move the puck behind his net to safety. Instead, he knocked the Silver Knight’s forechecker off his skates, dumped him into the boards and brought the H-E-B Center at Cedar Park to its feet. 

via GIPHY

Bichsel’s first shift set the tone for the game and his play style this season. He chooses violence first, consistently wins puck battles on the boards and uses his size very well in front of his net. Besides the tremendous physical play Bichsel has shown, he has also been successful on both sides of special teams and has a surprising amount of skill with the puck.

Physicality

Bichsel has found himself in several kerfuffles so far this year. Being one of the biggest guys on the ice at 6’5” also means he is the biggest target. Opponents are poking, prodding, and sometimes outright bludgeoning Bichsel after moving the puck or in between whistles. Bichsel has not backed down from these physical challenges; they seem to bring him joy. 

For example, in the season's opening game, Texas Stars captain Curtis McKenzie got a faceful of glove after making a big hit. Bichsel flew into the pile and engaged in a shoving match with three Knights simultaneously. Eventually, he pulled his desired opponent out of the pile while losing his helmet, but his request for fisticuffs was promptly declined. While escorted off the ice to serve his roughing penalty, he beckoned to the boisterous home crowd to make even more noise.

via GIPHY

A guy like Bichsel, who is capable and excited to participate in these game-within-a-game moments, can absolutely benefit a hockey club. Dallas has been blessed in this department, thanks primarily to their long-time captain, Jamie Benn. Benn has developed a reputation in the NHL as someone seeking out these moments, just like Bichsel has in the AHL. Dallas could use a player like Bichsel with this same kind of edge, especially in the playoffs. 

Versatility

Bichsel's versatility has been a critical asset for Texas this year. He has played on the left side (his strong side) and the right side of the defense. He is also on the top penalty kill unit and even leads the second power play group. 

His ability to succeed in all of these situations will make him a better player and more enticing as a potential call-up. This is especially true with his comfort playing on the right side of the defense where Dallas lacks quality players. “He’s played the right a lot,” Texas Stars head coach Neil Graham said after a recent home game. “...To have that option to play either side is only going to help him in his development.” Bichsel might be seen as a potential in-season replacement if new Dallas defenseman Matt Dumba continues his struggles this year. 

Decision Making and Consistency

When moving the puck in his defensive zone, Bichsel has shown good consistency in his decision-making. He still has the occasional misplay, but they are not his norm. “He came out of the gates really consistent and solid,” Graham said regarding one of Bichsel’s miscues this season. “Part of our responsibility and a part of his development is that steadiness, and I think that's why you're in the minors. You're learning those consistencies on a nightly basis.”

That consistency is the main item that Bichsel needs to get dialed in with the Texas Stars. He has the skills that an NHL defenseman needs and then some, but consistently making the proper play night in and night out is another level Bichsel needs to reach. 

Puck Battles

Bichsel uses his superior size and reach to win puck battles along the boards, often before they even start. His reach allows him to move the puck to a more advantageous position, and then he separates the opponent from the play by putting his body between them and the puck. From there, Bichsel quickly moves the puck to a teammate or just skates away with it. 

One area that Bichsel could improve on is his use of his feet during puck battles. In situations where the puck does end up around his skates on the boards, he generally defaults to pinning his man and waiting for help.

Benn is also an excellent example of properly using your feet during these scrums. He will either pin the puck to the boards using his boot or actually step on the puck using his skate blade. This gives him more control over where the puck can go, even if his teammate is not the first extra man to get to the battle. This skill could make Bichsel even more successful along the boards. 

Penalty Kill

Bichsel has become a staple on the penalty kill this year for the Texas Stars. He and Petrovic are generally the first two defenders on the ice for the PK. He has been especially good in front of his net, clearing loose pucks and tying up attackers. 

From his usual position at the top of the crease, Bichsel can use his reach to defend the entire lower slot. This has made shots from the slot a rarity while he is on the ice. Bichsel looks like he would be able to slot into the Dallas PK group without missing much of a beat. 

Offense

While primarily focused on defense, Bichsel also has some sneaky skills on the attack. His best skill on this side of the puck is his pinches to keep the puck in the offensive zone. His decision-making on when to pinch is near perfect, and when he makes that decision, he is fully committed to ensuring the play stays in the attack zone. 

With the puck on his tape, you won't see many fancy dangles along the blue line or shoulder fakes to drive to the net. You will see consistent, intelligent passes and an old-school clapper that would make any shot blocker cower.

via GIPHY

Bichsel has two goals this year (one on an empty net) and six assists through 18 games. While offense may never be a crucial part of his game, having the ability to chip in now and then, even as a defense-first player, is a plus.

Conclusion

Bichsel has the skill. He displayed it when he played in all but one preseason game for Dallas and was one of the last players sent down to Texas from training camp. However, Dallas Stars general manager Jim Nill has shown with players like Jake Oettinger, Thomas Harley, and Logan Stankoven that he likes to let his prospects marinate in Cedar Park. 

This patience from Nill likely means Bichsel will remain with the Texas Stars for most of the year, but we’ve seen two years in a row that late-season callups can make enormous impacts for Dallas in the playoffs. Who’s to say we won’t see a third?