So, the biggest team issue is lack of production from the 3rd & 4th lines. The coaches can't do this for them. All they can do is put them through the practice drills, and encourage those players to put into practice, what they've been working on. I know that Dale has always been known to tinker with the lines.....even when it appears that some are clicking and producing. So, why not give some of the more promising 3rd liners a shift or 2 with the top 2 lines so that they have a better notion of execution of the game plan ?
It doesn't have to be permanent, or even sustained, but more of an attempt toward elevating the play of those players, so that they can and do provide more of what is expected of them. So far, nothing has kick-started those lines, and if the real issue is a lack of hockey smarts or raw talent, then this will expose those who are worth keeping, and those who'se destiny is the trade bait pile.
The " team leaders"....the guys wearing the letters also have a role in this too. If they are really leaders, they have to push, prod, or encourage those underperforming players, and help them toward fulfilling their assignments. They know their teamates, and which ones have what it takes, and which ones aren't really cut out to play at this level.
This season, for whatever reason, seems to be one where everything doesn't seem to be working in unison, as it usually does. Half the team is carrying the rest, and those in the bottom 2 lines are not stepping up or elevating their play.
