Quote:
Originally Posted by GioforPM
But I'm not sure Bennett's pace of play is a match for Neal and Tkachuk. But you never know.
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I wanted to see Tkachuk-Bennett-Neal when we first made the signing but now that we've seen some of the early returns, I'm starting to think Tkachuk and Neal may be too collectively slow to be on the same line, regardless of who is centering.
Tiny sample size that could change, but considering Tkachuk-Backlund usually dominate with a speedier RW, I believe that's what Tkachuk needs opposite of him. Someone who can generate their own rushes out of the walls. Frolik and Czarnik can do that. I have another idea too...
Quote:
Originally Posted by Calgary4LIfe
As for Jankowski - I still think his ceiling is that of a #2 center. He just needs time to grow, that's all. I bet that Jankowski finishes off with 15 goals and 15+ assists this year.
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I'm very conflicted with Jankowski. I've been one of his biggest supporters since he was a prospect - I want to see him succeed as a top six forward as I think the skill is there and the tools are there. I do think there're situations where he could succeed - in particular being on a scoring line with Gaudreau where he could get away with a bit less defensively, but we have that role saturated right up currently. I consider him a center but I think if the Flames want to maximize their roster as constructed they should consider letting Janko fly on the wing. Maybe he'd get more breakaways there too.
One combo I've tossed around in my head is:
Gaudreau-Monahan-Lindholm
Tkachuk-Backlund-Jankowski
Czarnik-Bennett-Neal
Dube-Ryan-Frolik
Here I see Jankowski as being a version of Frolik that finishes. I think they're comparable skaters and Jankowski's reach could create some extra opportunities too. On paper, I think Janko could give you 25 / 20 in this role.