Alex Killorn‘s road to the NHL wasn’t exactly conventional, but after stints with the Harvard Crimson (ECAC), Norfolk Admirals (AHL) and Syracuse Crunch (AHL), the 25-year-old forward finally cracked the Tampa Bay Lightning‘s roster in 2012-13 and hasn’t looked back since.

Often overshadowed by players like Tyler Johnson and Steven Stamkos, Killorn doesn’t always stand out amongst his teammates. His game isn’t particularly flashy, and he won’t put up eye-popping numbers, but the role he plays for Tampa Bay has been a big part of their success, and that’s becoming more and more apparent in these playoffs.

Since joining the Lightning, Killorn has consistently produced at around a 0.5 point-per-game pace. That’s not off the charts, however, in an era where goals are hard to come by, it’s nothing to sneeze at. Some would argue Killorn has been the beneficiary of having good linemates — he’s now playing on a line with Stamkos and Ryan Callahan — but the 25-year-old plays an important role on the first trio, and has justified every minute he’s earned.

Killorn was drafted for his size, versatility and offensive instincts. His strong forechecking ability and knack for winning battles in the corners make him tough to contain in the offensive zone. Killorn is not the fastest skater in the world, but where he lacks in speed, he makes up for in his hockey smarts and work ethic. Perhaps his greatest strength, though, is his willingness to get better.

Lightning head coach Jon Cooper has constantly praised Killorn’s drive to improve at both ends of the ice, and for good reason. Killorn has worked hard on his anticipation in the defensive zone, and it has paid off. Not only is Killorn contributing on offense, but his backchecking has now become arguably the strongest part of his game. Killorn’s ability to read the play and intercept a seeing-eye pass has improved in leaps and bounds; so much so that he has become one of, if not Tampa Bay’s best defensive forward. This has only been further reinforced in the playoffs.

Though it’s early in the postseason, Killorn has already proven to be a factor. Having scored two goals and two assists, he ranks second on the team in points produced at even strength, behind Johnson’s team-leading seven points. However, it’s Killorn’s defense that has been most impressive. According to WAR On Ice, Killorn ranks first on the team in scoring chances against (per 60 minutes at even strength), giving up just 18.06.

Although Killorn is moderately sheltered, his ability to drive possession and prevent scoring chances has given coach Cooper confidence to play him in all game situations. What’s more, because the 25-year-old plays on a line with Callahan and Stamkos, he’s up against the opponent’s top lines and defensive pairings every game. Despite this hurdle, Killorn has still managed to maintain possession better than any forward on the team in these playoffs.

Killorn isn’t a superstar in the making, and he probably won’t win a scoring title anytime soon, but what he brings to the table cannot be understated. He’s not the type of player that will make your jaw drop. He’ll just help your team win championships instead.

Ryan is an NHL writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @rtskilton.

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