Johnny-Money-Tkachuk
Neal-Lindholm-Bennett
Jankowski-Backs-Frolik
Lazar-Ryan-Czarnik/Brouwer
Peters has talked about having Tkachuk move to his off-wing already. Neal is a natural Left Wing as well. So I think Moving Tkachuk to the top RW fills in the grit factor that Ferland had, but also brings a lot more Offensive power. Tkachuk was a 50 point player on a defensive minded 3M line. I don't think it's unreasonable to see him hit 70 points along with Monahan and Johnny.
Bennett has played some RW since being moved away from Center. Given the opportunity to settle in on a line, I think we see him come closer to potential. He's able to retrieve pucks, and win battles in the corners. I think having a play making center, and a natural goal scorer as linemates helps him Flourish. I think he just needs to be given the opportunity, not just a few games here and there. Also gives us two guys who can take draws.
Jankowski showed some offensive flair last season, which is what Backlund and Frolik require to be an Elite 3rd line in the league. Jankowski can learn to play a solid 2 way game, much like Tkachuk has, while also leading the line offensively.
Lazar may never reach the expectations many had when he was drafted, and that's fine. He's a guy with a motor that doesn't stop, doesn't shy away from the corners, and has enough skill to chip in. Along with Ryan and Czarnik, this could be one of the most frustrating 4th lines in the league to play against. Smart defensively, but with enough skill that it's not out of reach for all 3 guys to pot 10+ goals, and put up 25+ points.
With the additions so far, what I really hope to see is some consistency in the line-up. Guys need some time to build chemistry, we now have enough wingers to fill the top 9, and not have to constantly move guys up and down lines every other game.
Crazy thing, I could also see the line-up being completely different, but just as successful.
Gonna be a fun season!
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