Quote:
Originally Posted by PepsiFree
No, but a lot do.
Here are some distinguished top-line players on a few playoff bound (above wildcard) teams around the league...
Anaheim - Rakell
Chicago - Hartman, Panik
Edmonton - Maroon
Pittsburgh - Sheary, Rust
Washington - Beagle
Montreal - Danault
San Jose - Karlsson
A few of those guys are 3-4 years younger than Chiasson, a few of them are the same age or older. None of them are clear top-line players.
A big difference between the good teams and the average-to-bad teams is that good teams spread their players out. They usually have lines with 2 good-to-great players, and one guy who doesn't "fit." Part of this is because of the salary cap, and part of this is to balance out lines so that you can roll all of them with confidence.
There is a chance that even if the RW spot is addressed, that said player isn't gifted a spot on the top line and it still ends up going to a guy like Chiasson. The problem isn't Chiasson, it never has been. If your top two (or two of your top 3 or 4) players are playing together, they should be able to carry that line, period.
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I understand your point, but of the players you listed who would you refuse to trade Chiasson for? The guy is a plug and the coaches insistence on getting him on the team and now playing him in a role that is way above his skill requires general manager intervention.