RNH - McDavid - Yamamoto/Rattie
We all saw that RNH and McDavid just pain worked ~ would love to see Yama get going, but Rattie (or any of the rightwingers) should be given shots as play dictates (accountability and hot hands)
Khaira - Draisaitl - Rieder
I honestly don't know much of Rieder, so I'm reaching with this line. I wouldn't mind Lucic seeing some time on this line (again, when play warrents it)
Lucic - Strome - Puljujarvi/Aberg
I love Lucic, but I don't think he works well with McDavid or Drai — I believe controlled entries have deminished his game here more than his age, wear and tear, or losing a step. Get him chasing, crashing bodies, and causing chaos.
Caggiula - Brodziak - Kassian
Another dump and chase line. I'm happy Brodziak is back, and I hope for his success on the 4th line and PK. Both Kass and Drake should see time in the top 9 with injuries and as play dictates ~ I hope they take advantage and push everyone else to be better.
Aberg/Rattie
Not saying they will be on the outside looking in, I'm just wearing my rose coloured glasses, and Yama/Pulju starting off the season able to be locked into lines would be relieving.
Klefbom - Larsson
I'd like to see a step up from the success they had in 2016/17. It would be great if they could eat 25 minutes a night, and lesson the load Russel and Benning have to carry. They are both young enough that year should not be their peak.
Nurse - Sekera
I believe Sekera has played his off side before. This pair should be able to eat 20+ minutes in fine fashion, and probably supply some offense.
Russell - Benning
Playing under 15 minutes a night of somewhat sheltured minutes should allow this pair to have success.
Bear/Bouchard
Don't know much about Gravel, but I'm hopping Bear can muscle his way into the 7th spot. I've got Bouchard in there too, if he shows he's ready, we hopefully have the depth to shelter/develop him on the third pairing.
Talbot
Koskinen
I've got a lot of time for Talbot, but hopefully Koskinen can step in and push Talbot to be better if he looks to faulter. Koskinen is a gamble, but I like the move.