Hudler's first year with those two was fantastic - I really think Hudler helped both of them an incredible amount on and off the ice. That line was really good.
Hudler's 2nd year on that line - not so good. Got worse as time went by it seemed. One can argue that Hudler dragged that line down a bit at times, though I think he was just 'ok' and didn't add much nor detract much.
Also, that line was simply great (at least the duo was) when Hudler was moved off the line, when Hudler was hurt, and even after Hudler was traded away. There is simply no evidence to support the theory that Gaudreau and Monahan 'miss' Hudler. I think Monahan misses a healthy back, and Gaudreau misses a less structured offensive system (my best guess).
Monahan will heal up (if he hasn't already) and when those two adjust to the new system, there will be a lot less passes to nobody and being out of position. They look awkward out there a lot, and to me, that is either a lack of chemistry or lack of system familiarity. I would think it is the systems since Gaudreau played with Monahan for 2 straight seasons now, and the two undoubtedly have chemistry together.
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