PGT is turning into the lineup thread so I'm going to drop this here for a bump.
I'd like to see:
- JP with McDavid. Main worry is the 1st line top comp and minutes problem but I think having him as a weapon will give 97 more room or if everyone still keys to 97 then 98 has an easier ride and will create his own chances. At least try it to see how they look.
- Ebs with Nuge. Tried and true, they play well together, should elevate both games.
- Maroon with 97. Probably won't happen anytime soon, Looch has that spot, but based on last year 19 plays well with 97 and knows his role. I think part of the problem with Lucic is he figures he's a top line goal scorer and is worried about taking penalties.
- Lucic with Nuge. I think having the big body will help 93 a lot, he does too much board work and offensively I think they'd work well. 27 would basically be an upgrade on 44 on the other side.
That would give:
19-97-98
27-93-14
67-29-44 <- would be a good heavy line that should score.
I doubt that we'll see Looch switch lines anytime soon, so swap 27 and 19 in that, I'd like to get a look at Maroon with RNH as well. I also doubt Ebs will be going anywhere in the near future, I have a feeling TMac will keep throwing that line out till it works.
Which leaves us with swapping Maroon for Pou:
27-97-14
19-93-44
67-29-98
-I would like to try 98 with 93 to see how they work in the O zone, but it'd be very dangerous with how Tmac uses that line. Or maybe not, JP seems to be getting better every game. It's something I would try in practice then throw out in a game we already have control of.
Meanwhile, pick a game and play Slepyshev and let JP watch from up top. Ice time for one, rest and bird's eye view for the other. Also wouldn't mind seeing more Pitlick with Drai... it sure is nice having guys competing for spots with more coming from the farm. I'd Really like someone to make Pou expendable.
But don't you want more skill and muscle with McDavid? Maybe keep Lucic there?
