Two rookies, one 19, the other can't win a faceoff, are put at even strength with Tanner Glass, the worst possession player on the roster.
Vigneault talks about wanting 4 lines, and he puts a line together that will most likely get no ice time.
Two thirda of what should be the fourth line playing in the top nine. And two players that should be distributed amongst the top 9 on the bottom line with the worst forward on the roster (other than Malone).
Vigneault is one of the smartest coaches in the league, but not impervious to questionable decisons.
Is that line going to get 10-14 minutes? Or are they going to get 8? If its 8 its a waste of time for everyone.
Distribute the veteran leaders, split up the rookies and put them veteran leaders. Roll 4 lines that can contribute.
Good post, I agree with most of it.
That line has the potential to be a possession horror, but, it's also a responsible one defensively. Hayes has been very cool and calm in the Rangers zone. 5v5 Hayes is -1 in goal differential. Duclair is +5. Glass is -7 (LOL).
We've seen through the course of the game that AV also switches the lines up. I wouldn't be surprised to see Duclair or Hayes get extended minutes, ESPECIALLY if their game is on early.
As for your last point, which I have bolded, I get what you're saying. This Rangers team though, considering their centers, is pretty top-heavy with Stepan and Brass. I don't mind, especially on the road, if AV decides to load up.
If anything, I'd swap Hayes and Moore, and let Moore take some of the faceoffs for Hayes while switching on the fly.
