Upset that Matthews is out, but as a hockey nerd I'm really interested in Monday's game with these change ups. Overall, looking at the forward lines right now I REALLY wish we had Nylander, we look really average with this lineup.
Tavares line: Holy **** we are lucky to get JT this offseason. One of the best parts about him is that we can put 2 middle six wingers and get a quality top 50 line in the NHL, and he meshes amazingly with basically everyone.
Kadri line: I love that Babcock put this line back together! Marleau hasn't looked good this year, and I think he will thrive on this unit with 2 elite transition players and puck carriers. As a clear third option I think we are using him better than with Matthews/Kap. Kadri has looked great all year so obviously I'm happy he's playing with Marner. These guys work great together, Kadri is a natural rebound/ net front goal scorer and Marner is elite at putting it there for him. Its really unfortunate that Johnsson has regressed this year because a playmaking winger is what he needs the most.
Lindholm line: This is a below average third line to put it cleanly. Speaking of Johnsson this is a huge opportunity for him because we really need him to thrive for this line to do anything offensively. Tbh I don't think this is putting Johnsson in a position to succeed and he should be tried higher in the lineup instead of Marleau, but that clearly won't happen for a while.
Goat line: I don't mind this line because it has Leivo on it, it will be fine. I really hope our playoff lineup has Lindholm-Brown as the regulars on this line