Don't think so at all. He's a good player. Probably wouldn't put as many points without Kessel, but that isn't a slight to JVR. He's got amazing net presence, I'd argue one of the best in the game at this point in time.
Because Lupul is a second line player. An elite second line player.
JvR looks fine where he is. Whoever you put opposite to Kessel seems to do well. I'd rather have Lupul on his own line where he can create more.
So much yapping about where guys fit in our top 9. There's so much talent you can shift people around with ease. The target is to create a balanced attack.
Because Lupul is a second line player. An elite second line player.
Because Lupul is a second line player. An elite second line player.
Which is why we will always be asking WHY BOZAK? Not WHY JVR?The talent gap between Kadri/Bozak is not the same as Lupul/JVR.
Because he's a ppg player and hasn't been playing with Kessel. You need two strong scoring lines and Lupes has managed to do it playing with Kadri.
I am all for putting Bozak, when he's healthy, back with Kessel, and Lupul with Kadri. It's about spreading the wealth. Who cares about 1st or 2nd line. Let's have two firsts.