I see Scherbak as almost a litmus test.
Whatever you want to call what is happening in Montreal it is pretty clear that our hope for a Cup lies in the future, and except for Price, non of the older vets fit the time frame. It's all on the youngsters on the team and the prospects that will come in.
So Scherbak has been derailed by injuries but came on last year, and we see his skill in abundance. He probably has the best potential of being a 1st line winger of the AHL graduates. Also fun to watch. But defensively , needs work.
Now we have enough depth that we can play skill guys in the top 9. Does Scherbak play with skill, which he must in order to be successful, or does he play with grinders and have to work himself up ? Or do we even keep him ?
The answers will help tell me whether it is the same old crap. Now of course there will be other indicators with other players, but Scherbaks usage will be pretty telling. And I am assuming he comes in with effort etc.