I think breaking up the 3M line is worth a shot, as I think that playing with two vets with complete games like Backlund and Frolik is the best way to ease in younger players. I think maybe starting Jankwoski on the wing with those two to get him settled would be a good move.
If Brouwer is exposed and taken:
Gaudreau - Monahan - Tkachuk*
Jankowski - Backlund - Frolik
Ferland* - Bennett - Lazar
That would be 3 lines that have balance, with the top line being a skill/scoring line that is fast and the 3rd line being even faster and chippier. Then it depends on who is retained/signed/makes the team for the 4th line, but that could possibly be:
Bouma - Stajan - Hathaway/Hamilton
And if Versteeg is signed, he is insurance if Jankowski doesn't make team, bringing a little shuffle, which could look like:
Gaudreau - Monahan - Tkachuk*
Frolik - Backlund - Lazar
Ferland* - Bennett - Versteeg
Either way, I think there is opportunity for Tkachuk to "graduate" from his "finishing school" on the Backlund line and a new guy looking to get established takes that place.
*If Tkachuk doesn't fit on his off-wing, then Ferland goes back there.
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