Quote:
Originally Posted by ricardodw
Backlund's line 56 goals would be doing well neutralizing Scheifele's 89 goal line.
Who do you want going against Laine-Ehlers-Eakins?
The Jets will be throwing out Lowry-Copps-Rosolovic (26 goals) against Monahan, Gaudreau Lindholm (69 goals) as much as they can. Do the Flames run with that and leave Lucic-Dube- Ryan/Bennett (all 4 34 goals) out against Laine-Ehlers-Eakins (54 goals).... I would guess that the Jets would be comfortable putting the series on that match up if the others cancel each other out.
In the line match up the Jets having shutdown line that can play against either of the Flames top 2 lines presents a coaching challenge.
If the Flames put Backlund out against Eakin's line that would be a competitive match up ... but would you want the top lines going head to head?
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Yes, asking the Backlund line to shut down the Scheifele is demanding to say the least. But Backlund was playing extremely well prior to the pause. Especially when he was with Tkachuk and Mangiapane. There's no doubt in my mind that Ward will attempt to match up this line with the Scheifele line.
The Flames technically have home ice advantage. So Ward does have some control here. In theory, the Monahan line should be able to outplay their opponents. I like the Monahan/Gaudreau/Lindholm line a lot more than I like the Eakin or Lowry lines. I don't think this is close.