A second level of protection for our young players is what Westgarth provides. I firmly believe in the two goon mentality. Westgarth knows his role. Terrible fighter but always game. No need to tap on his shoulder , he knows his role.
Team played better with him protecting the young guys. Every team has a goon, We have The Big Ern, he takes the other teams goon off the ice. Westgarth though is what other teams don't account for. Other teams don't take liberties with our players. Time to time Westgarth takes the other teams heavy weight off the ice. Normally losing the fight. Yet The Big Ern is left out there as a protector. Not many teams have an answer for this.
Is Wolfe or Van Brabant ready for this role? Maybe the nut Gillies on the heat? If Gaudreau play this year on our team I want a second goon handy. No one needs to tell Westgarth to protect this kid. I believe Westgarth could get 20 goals this year playing with Gaudreau. Gaudreau can shoot the puck off his head, his butt, his skates.
Gotta protect the young guys. Are team is more character than pure skill. We need westgarth for another year or two.
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