Obviously having a strong top unit to shelter lesser players would be a big help.
But Porty is saying we don't have anyone talented enough to roll on a line with Laine, which is hilarious. It's only true in the same sense that they're not good enough to carry a beer leaguer like me.
Sometimes I have a sense Porty's hockey analytics is worse then my English.
What's happen Laine ...IMHO what he must improve:
1. The shot.
Yes, his is excelent but if he's a sniper, it must be 20 points from 20 (eliteprospects).
2. Use his body.
Carrying the puck, working around the board etc, etc. He knows it but he must do it regurally. Btw it isn't about hits. They are often not too good because thanks to it an opponent can start an attack.
3. Playing without the puck.
It's very important not only for forchecking/backchecking but for the playing in the neutral zone. Btw, Grigo has quite good it but he played some years under Nikitin and his players must know it.
4. Acceleration.
IMHO his problem isn't so speed as acceleration, and it is important for blocking of shots because ideal situation is if a player's skating opposite to his player on blue line fast and he can't shoot ideal. And it's work especially for wingers.
5. Moving his legs.
It's better but he must be always in moving, especially if he doesn't have ideal acceleration.
6. Skating.
No comment.
7. Stable play.
No comment
Btw if Dreger is right and he can improve his strenght and condition here too, could his problems be in this too? I only ask. Because Torts need two way play from every player an play every minute.
