Dube or Gawdin I'd prefer over Rieder. You can make an argument for Rieder because of his salary, I'm not hung up on that, for me it's more of the opportunity for the younger guys. Gawdin can use NHL development and he's shown that he's pretty decent in the preseason where as Rieder is what he is.
We're not asking for Rieder to be a goal scorer but at the same time, just because you make league minimum and is a 12th/13th forward doesn't mean you just skate circles wasting time. This is why Hathaway was great as a 4th liner, he'll hit everyone, fore-check like a madman, block shots, and create "energy/momentum" for the next line that comes on the ice.
In regards to Rieder being on the PK, who's to say we can't get other guys to contribute in this area. There's 12 forwards to choose from.
I love players with speed, that's my number one asset I look for in any player. I was actually excited to have Rieder on the team and prove that he's better than what those up north no gooders think he is, but truthfully he's been underwhelming. Rieder is just there, paid league minimum and doing the minimum. I just don't see any contribution. As bad as Janko has been and I'd be glad if he was gone too, at least he's winning faceoffs.
Just my opinion.
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