Quote:
Originally Posted by the_only_turek_fan
I am worried that the top line wont be able to produce in tight playoff games.
Mike Smith was good.
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In the same boat. Mike Smith was good tonight and I too have concerns about the top line in the playoffs.
The Monahan line is elite in wide open games, but completely invisible in tight checking games. It’s a complete 360. Gaudreau generally looks the best of the bunch, but he’s usually on an island out there.
Monahan is virtually unnoticeable in tight checking games and it’s infuriating. He’s the team’s #1 sniper and he’s got what, 2 goals in the last 17 games? Tkachuk has easily surpassed him in goals now. Monahan might be 6’2,” but he plays like he’s 5’8.” Not strong enough in the corners, doesn’t win enough puck battles, plods out there, not enough finish. Lindholm has had his struggles too, but unlike the other 2, he’s in the corners digging away, winning puck battles and being tough to play against.
That goodness for the 3M line and the 4th line right now because they’re carrying this team. I’d honestly start taking minutes away from the 1st line and giving it to the 4th line who are dominating right now.