Quote:
Originally Posted by Bingo
Production is production, and I certainly don't shy away from that.
I just don't see Bennett as hurting Tkachuk as some have pointed out.
At the end of the day you need a second line to do some scoring. I'd hope they analysis of a second line is deeper than just looking at goals scored in month time frame and look into scoring chances generated vs giving up.
But you need to produce ultimately.
The stats certainly don't support the notion that Bennett is neutering Tkachuk.
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They can certainly be an effective line without putting up gaudy point totals and I wouldn't go as far as to say Bennett is neutering Tkachuk at all. The problem is that he's unable to capitalize on anything and is seemingly a non-factor in his ability to locate Tkachuk in open ice and help create more chances. Without Backlund it seems like it's just Tkachuk out there by himself in the offensive zone right now.
Your 6th best forward certainly needs to offer more to the group than the occasional point in the long run and I'm not sure what the answer is outside of potentially trying to get Neal going in that spot.