mpp9
Registered User
- Dec 5, 2010
- 32,616
- 5,074
I think we've seen that a fast skating winger with limited skill doesn't do Crosby much good when teams clog it up. Kessel will provide him more space than he is used to, but that third wheel needs to be more than a fast skater.
While Dupuis and maybe a hustling Kunitz may get around the ice faster from point A to B, you have to factor in the flubbed passes, the golden chances they will shank, and their complete inability to dance around guys. Those are all factors that can hurt the Kessel/Crosby duo.
It'll be interesting how it shakes out. I'm all for trying everyone. I'm just not sure having another guy who can stickhandle on that line is more beneficial than someone who can help them in their own end, on the breakout and just interfere with D-men in the corners and around the net.
Down the line, I'd try Plotnikov there after he adjusts to the NHL game. Especially next season, after a hopefully long playoffs, when I don't want Kunitz or Dupuis anywhere near our top 6.
He'd also add the physicality and mean streak that duo could use. I don't think his skating is any worse than Kunitz or PH.