Quote:
Originally Posted by Ashasx
Backlund would be 26/27 at that time and is very capable defensively and perfect in a 3rd line role (though I know you disagree) and much better than Stajan in that regard.
How old were Crosby and Malkin when they won the Cup? Was Toews not the 1st line centre for Chicago when they won their 1st Cup?
Young players take the reins all the time in the NHL. It's the only way to win it seems nowadays. There's nothing wrong with having a 21 and 20 year old composing your top 2 centres, especially when they are top picks and have proven their capabilities. Not to mention Backlund is more than capable of moving anywhere in the lineup.
And then you have Reinhart who has played very well this season who can play both centre and wing.
Really, I just see Stajan as pointless in 2 years. This isn't a team that will be competing for the Cup at that time, but you have to prepare your young players. If they aren't ready or are overwhelmed, move Backlund up for a while.
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The Blackhawks the first few years Toews was in the line-up employed veteran centres such as Lang, John Madden, who were in no way offensive forces anymore but still played tougher minutes and made it easier for their young players to thrive. Penguins did have young centres, but filled their lower half of their roster with guys like Recchi, LeClair, Roberts, to play those tough minutes and let Malkin and Crosby flourish. You need veteran players, and right now Stajan is the most veteran player on our squad. Obviously he won't be the only veteran, but looking at the free agents we could get this summer, who would seriously be better for the same price for the next few years?