I think what you point to is more of what play style fits on any given line. With my top 6 structured the way they are, I have Zetterberg and Larkin as the puck carrier and more driver of the offense. They are both very gifted in their ability to set their linemates up in different ways. Mantha and Zadina are both slotted in as the player with a sniper mentality. Bert and Nyquist are complementary players who can contribute in different ways, be it Bert's grinding and fearless attitude or Nyquist's obvious chemistry with Zetterberg.
AA is unique. The elements he bring are kind of a mixture of everything, but something is just missing for me. I just think that he is best served being on a line where he can be an energy guy. A change of pace that can catch a team on their heels. I'd rather not have that energy guy be a regular on the top 6 lines that I am relying heavily on to be a consistent force on both ends of the ice. I mean, Phil Kessel played a third line role for Pittsburgh...we know Kessel has the talent of a top line forward, but they deployed him in a role where he could feast. Crosby and Malkin might be slowed down, but earn their keep against any matchup they get, but letting Kessel fly over the boards and feast on the leftovers is exactly what he needs to be at his best.
