He can play reach a good top speed, but he does it very inconsistently. More importantly, he lacks quickness to create separation in the offensive zone, so he will need to be able to fend off defenders. Players like Connor and Ehlers are able to escape from physical engagement with their quickness and agility. Laine is going to need to learn how to protect the puck and fend off defenders to become more effective. Right now, it's too easy to catch him and take the puck away.
I would love to see that as well Whileee, but 6'5" Laine is never going to have the quickness and agility of Ehlers or Connor. He is trying to make up for it by his fancy puck control and passing, but isn't quite there all the time yet.
I think he is doing a FAR better job of protecting the puck in the latter half of the year though, trying to use his body much like Wheeler does, so that's a step in the right direction. Wheeler at 6'5" has the same issue with agility, and opponents are pressuring him now too until he gives up the puck. Neither of them are really cut out for that type of play imo. Wheeler has had more than a decade to get better at using his body, but still has issues simply because of his frame type. They are both much more effective off the rush I think.
We have different players with different attributes. They all have incredible individual attributes.... every single current top six forward has a super power
Ehlers with his zone entries, Laine with his passing and shot, KC with the inclose plays and evading ability, 55/26 with their obvious abilities. I still think a top 2C brings out more than the sum of the parts on this top 6.
We have to figure out how to mix those attributes and use plays that maximize the talents.
Sorry, got off on a bit of a rant