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Originally Posted by MattyC
I'm not saying it's the only factor. That doesn't mean it's not a factor. Just a thought to discuss. It's not about dropping the mitts as much as keeping people away from the scrum. If Backlund and Frolik can both calm or hold 2-3 people away from Tkachuk vs the 1 that Monahan grabs could make a big difference for how Tkachuk feels playing. Nobody would blame Johnny for skating away. Id rather have him avoid it all together and have Tkachuk work with 3M on The job they do so well.
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Fair point, though I don't think you really need to hold people out of a scrum. Even when emotions are high and there's 8 or 9 guys piled together in the corner or behind the net after a whistle, it's really nothing more than some pushing and shoving. It's not like there's 5 opponents in there all trying to punch Tkachuk in the face, plus, we've seen Johnny get involved, he's not risking his health or safety by grabbing a guy on the side of the scrum and skating him out of it.
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Ferland and Tkachuk are different entities. Tkachuk is to make people mad. Ferland is supposed to be a physcial force with skill. He's supposed be taking guys to task for hacking at Johnny, while also contributing offensively, not necessarily starting ####. Hasn't been helping much in his supposed role since the 2015 playoffs IMO.
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Agreed 100%, which is why I'd be all for seeing Tkachuk up there, he brings the size and speed Ferland does, but has been playing with the edge and skill you want up there. At this point, Ferland needs to go back to being a crash and bang bottom 6 guy.
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Maybe you're right. I think Bennett is a better fit personally as someone that has high skill and angry physicality, but isn't exactly "getting under the skin". I don't doubt they would do well with Tkachuk. Just think he's a better fit where he is.
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Ultimately I think you're right, and Bennett is the best fit for the top line with Johnny and Money and Tkachuk is the best fit with Backs and Frolik, but I think Backs and Frolik provide a little more stability and a lot more defensive coverage for Bennett while he gets back on track. Once Bennett is playing his game again, then you swap the two.
It'll be fun to see what happens, I just want to see Bennett producing again, and I think that happens for him on the wing.