What is the right blueprint for the B's moving forward? There are so many angles to tackle this from; age, performance relative to salary, style of team (fast and skilled or heavy or perhaps a hybrid)?
The Stanley Cup team from 2011-2014 was based on "heavy" formula that included toughness throughout lineup. Lucic had a linemate (Iggy or Horton) to share direct conflicts while on ice along with some heavy D in the form of Chara, McQuaid. Additionally, had Thorton to handle any designated goons. The lack of support in that area is one of the reasons I believe Lucic is not the player we all want him to be and once was.
No idea what the blueprint going forward is but the size and/or style of many of the forward group doesn't necessarily fit "heavy". Spooner, Pasternak, Kreji, Smith, Erickson, Marchand (love his spunk but not heavy) and even Bergeron (though he plays tough, not heavy). Add in bringing in top prospects like Koko along with a look at our 4th line of Campbell (willing to protect but is painful to watch), Talbot and Paille and we are one very small group up front. Not enough skill to go that theme and MUCH TOO SMALL to go heavy.
And the D is not exactly robust either with Krug, Bartkowski Trotman along with Chara and Seids not playing a heavy game. McQuaid is the only one I would consider a heavy player that inflicts fear and will stand up for not only himself but teammates. And his is a UFA.
Not sure where I am going with this other than to say that Chia or some other new GM has their work cut out for them next year to first of all establish a blueprint and then deal with getting the players to fill that blueprint in.
The GM, whoever it will be, will need to navigate through no trade clauses, salary cap issues and keeping a culture where Boston continues to be an attractive destination for players to come. Best of luck to that person and I certainly look forward to the next 10 to 12 weeks!
