I think Wheeler being in that position is more indicative of the player than the handedness. Wheeler is their best play maker, therefore he gets the half-wall spot. His handedness is irrelevant to him getting that spot. It does open things up as you've described nicely in your post, the backward angle of the pass from a righty to a righty cross ice is an interesting observation too, hadn't thought of that one. Not sure how much impact that has as a PKer should be adjusting to the angle whichever way it's laid out. What Laine does exceptionally well is move, he doesn't remain stationary and depend on the threaded pass, he'll drift higher or lower depending on the defender, which keeps that defender's head spinning allowing Wheeler to catch him off-guard when he passes.
As for the Buff not passing to Laine purposely, that's just silly. Nobody is looking off anyone for any reason but strategy at this level. Buff is a very good player, if he's not making the pass to Laine in whatever situation, it's because he sees a better option. I trust his judgment as to what the better play is. It's been laid out by myself and others that the pass from Buff to Laine is too short to get the goalie moving, therefore, the run through Wheeler. Yes, Laine may be able to beat a goalie anyway but the percentages are higher if the pass is from further.
Another thing to consider is how much the PKers key on Laine, drift that forward high to his spot. If Buff forced those passes over to him constantly, the PP becomes predictable and easier to defend. By going to the Wheeler side, it provides the most options and loosens the box because PKers are going to try and prevent all his options, which is impossible. Even if Laine is open for Buff, it still makes more sense to lull the PKers into positions you want them in instead of looking for a quick strike. Personally, I hate when Wheeler shoots from his spot, but it's really a necessary play because it proves it's possible he'll shoot, once again forcing the PKers to be aware of that as well.
All in all, the Jets PP is very good and it's at the top of the standings for a reason. To the suggestion of putting the left shooting Morrissey or Chiarot up there, it doesnt work on PP1 because of Wheeler, but it would work with PP2 and Ehlers, something definitely worth a try. I don't particularly like Myers decision making from up there, so another option would be nice. Having Chiarot pound away with that cannon is a really interesting idea, blows my mind that we're even talking about Ben Chiarot on the power play, but he's been good.
