Quote:
Originally Posted by prizefighterinferno
Agreed. Would even like to see Valimaki on PP1 so that Andersson can play PP2 and you have a threatening shot (and a right shot, with Lindholm) on both units.
Tkachuk
Lindholm-Monahan-Gaudreau (prefer the off-wing set-up)
Valimaki
Bennett
Backlund-Mangipane-Dube (Mang in the middle position as a shooter as he has the best release, similar to Monahan on unit 1)
Andersson
That second unit pp was really good the last two months of last year but with Lucic as net-front instead of Bennett. Would like to see Bennett get more opportunity if it’s warranted, but not at the expense of Backlund as he is the best puck carrier and passer of the bunch and tends to work well to create either net front deflections or open looks for the D for a shot. Had 10 PP points last year.
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I'm not a fan of Bennett as the netfront guy. I'd rather see a PP2 built around Bennett on the right circle. This goal he scored during the playoffs is what I'd hope to see more of:
Not just because that one went in. But because, back around 2018, it seemed like he really wanted to play that role on the PP. I'd always see him flare out to that area and wait for the setup pass. Hamilton was on the PP at the time and would elect to shoot pretty consistently instead, but I think someone like Andersson hor Valimaki as more of a setup mentality (or maybe better vision?). I think it's an area of Bennett's repertoire that the team hasn't really maximized. He's made some really nice plays from that right circle area when he's had the confidence to hang on to the puck - off the top of my head I can think of an incredible pass to Kris Russell in his rookie year, another great feed to Joe Colborne coming off the bench (after working over Sidney Crosby at that), a feed to Backlund in the slot in his sophomore (?) year, and a couple years ago there was a setup to Neal that was picturesque.
Valimaki would be an amazing addition to either PP unit. I'd lean towards Andersson on PP1 and Valimaki on PP2 simply because the former shoots right, which gives Gaudreau better options. Both are really skilled, and I'd argue Kylington would excel in this role too. He had a feed last preseason (?) that was one of the nicest passes. Lemme go dig it up.