It is hilarious that everyone is calling Cooper a "genius" right now. I, along with many others, have been clamoring for this change for years. Steven Stamkos is not and has never been a "natural" center. Instead, this perception was created by the Canadian brain trust for the good old' number one overall Canadian boy. To this point of his career, has he been above average defensively? No. Does he play better with the puck on his stick and when he can control the pace of the game? Not even close - that is laughable. Does he have blazing speed and a world class shot? Yes. Does he play better without the puck? Yes. He is tailor-made to be a world class winger. He is not Crosby and simply does not possess that skill set. If you understand the game and have been watching him closely his entire clear, this has been glaringly obvious. All you have to do is watch past film of him trying to control the puck and watch any of the several dozen inopportune turn overs or errant passes that he has made.
Anyways, it is great that he has been moved to right wing because it is his natural position. He can take advantage of his speed, shot and offensive instincts. I must admit, however, that he is now playing fantastic - which is such a relief! And his leadership, tenacity and physicality has been key during this run. He has really stepped up and it is great to watch.
Regarding the "need" to find another top-2 centerman, that is unnecessary. Although Yzerman does not meddle in Cooper's business and does not not usurp his role, he was perceptive enough to see that Stamkos was a winger. So guess what: He went ahead drafted a player born to play center and feed Stamkos for the rest of his career. His name is Jonathan Drouin. The puck sticks to his stick, he has elite vision and play making ability.
Buckle up and enjoy the ride, folks. The next few years are going to be a lot of fun.