Quote:
Originally Posted by Jiri Hrdina
There are all sorts of ways to win in the nhl
Size
Speed
Skill
Tight d
The Flames win because of skill. Adding a guy won’t change them into a tough team
We’ve said this team has needed an identity for years. They have one. And more often than not that’s how they win
Don’t try and change that. They need to own what they are and beat teams on that basis
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I made a similar post specifically about adding one bigger/tougher guy and does that really help.
Right now I'm leaning to yes it would help. The fourth line is an interesting topic. I can't find it but I recall Treliving talking about what you want on a fourth line and how assessing a roster has changed (top 6, bottom 6 skill and grit).
CGY's fourth line perplexes me currently. I don't know if Mangiapane is the best fit there. He plays no special teams and I'm wondering what his role is? Do they want all their lines to outplay the opposition so just put the best players on there and you'll out corsi the opponent and that's all that matters?
I don't like watching Mangiapane get bounced around along the boards. He's taking some heavy hits and he's turned pucks over.
I like Ryan's play of late (he was outstanding against DET) he kills and he's making plays. Hathaway has the PK and heaviness to his game. Is Mangiapane there to play with Ryan and out corsi the opponent?
For meaningful games I want a physical component. I want players who will exact a physical toll on the opponent's D. I want players to be strong on the boards.
If Mangiapane is going to stay and they are going to outskill then he better start showing some skill. Reduce his turnovers to zero and start causing more havoc with his speed. He's barely holding on right now - I may be being too harsh on him but his role and his skillset are not matching.
I think this team will need to up their physicality - doesn't mean put a goon out there but someone who can and will dish it out. 8 min role. If the fourth line is below 50% CF but they are inflicting damage I'm sorry but I will happily take that trade off.