Quote:
Originally Posted by Textcritic
Yeah, Stonehands Garbageman is only the #6 scoring centre in the NHL, and ranks only #9 in assists out all Western Conference centres. What a dud.
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Never said that, so not sure why you’re taking it as a Monahan criticism. I said that Gaudreau is the playmaker on the line and Monahan is more of the goal scorer of that line. They also thrive on the give and go which is not a Neal’s game. That’s why Lindholm has been such a great fit because even though he’s never hit the same goal totals as Neal, he’s the better candidate.
We’ve seen Neal on the rush and he just doesn’t look comfortable. Every game he plays with Monahan and Gaudreau right after a penalty his killed and they can’t generate anything together. Then the second Lindholm comes on it’s magic. At this point in his career, Neal needs a fast, primary puck carrying centerman who can dish to Neal in the slot. Without that, I don’t think he’ll find success here.
A lot of people are banking on him scoring and then catching fire with new found confidence, but it’s not like he caught fire after he scored against Colorado. Personally I don’t think it’s a confidence issue, it’s a fit problem at the moment.