Last year was supposed to be a big one for Pageau, he was preparing for a chance to seize the 2nd line center role behind Duchene, then disaster struck and his training camp was ended along with half his season before it even started.
Now, the team is again without a #2 centerman set in stone and Pageau is entering a contract year. The stakes for him couldn't be higher, and there won't likely be a better opportunity for him to show what he can provide.
Traditionally Pageau has been used in a shutdown role, but he's shown to have a little more offense in his repertoire than his numbers suggest when given an expanded role.
We also might be tempted to pump and dump him, which could be beneficial for both the team and the player.
So, what kind of role do you see Pageau in this year?
2nd line scoring center? Paired with some offensively capable wingers like Duclair, Balcers, or Ryan?
3rd line shutdown center? Paired with more less offensively gifted, or defensive minded grinder types, perhaps Ennis, Brown, Anisimov?
Something else, like perhaps shifted to the wing?
How many pts will he get? 40+? 30-40? <30?
I expect Pageau to get an A, and be champing at the bit to prove his worth. I think he's got the skillset to thrive no matter what role he's in, and expect him to quickly become one of DJ Smith's favourites. I hope he gets some offensive looks though, if Brown doesn't make the team, I'd like him to get an extended look on the 2nd line.
edit: totally missed that there was already a thread for Pageau, moved my post over here...
