Quote:
Originally Posted by CalgaryFan1988
The "cheap, low skill players" is what fans say. Players, like Iginla for instance, say they play like they are 5 feet taller when they have a fighter in the lineup. So, according to professional hockey players, they serve a purpose.
I look forward, like many, to the day where they don't. But in todays NHL, they still do, unfortunately.
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I agree. Fighters like Oliwa, McGrattan, and Hunter played a real role and could change a game's momentum. Too bad it also results in brain damage, otherwise it would still be a thing.
But FDW wasn't talking about fighters. It was energy/grinder lines. So, assuming that's a thing, what's the absolute best "energy line" in the NHL today. Got one?? So, if there were no salary cap in today's NHL, would the NYR be clamoring to sign those guys? No.
"Cheap" is the primary qualification for 4th line now. Cheap and energetic is better. Cheap, defensively aware, and somewhat skilled would be even better. Janko has the "cheap" figured out, and aside from face-punching he's better in every respect than Lazar, Hamilton, Glass, Hathaway right now.
I'm not complaining about the team's decision... I'm saying there's no reason anymore to say that an "energy" player is preferable to a better skilled player, costs being equal.