Gaudreau and Monahan have now played ten games apart under Sutter. Obtaining as much information as possible in this regard will be vital to the Flames' off-season decision making, of course also factoring in each of the players' long-term desires. Here is the snapshot, noting that with under 200 5v5 minutes you should expect some variance and fluctuation and should contextualize accordingly with your own eye test...but it's a start. Factor in level of linemates and opposition as you see fit, too, noting those typically offset for the most part.
All numbers courtesy of Natural Stat Trick.
My own observations:
- Both players have responded relatively well to their respective roles and linemates.
- Gaudreau having a centreman who is better defensively has allowed him more room to roam defensively and in transition, and Lindholm's willingness to drive the middle lane to the near post has opened space for Gaudreau to operate above the dots in the offensive zone which is where he's at his most dangerous. No change in his lack of compete for 50-50 pucks and fly-bys, but Lindholm is far better suited to support his weaknesses there.
- Monahan has been quietly solid defensively while facing a reduced and appropriate level of competition. Offensively, his willingness to go to the paint is admirable, however he is still a step behind in transition support which, as the centreman, puts a tremendous amount of pressure on his wingers as they get pushed outside the dot lanes. 10 shots on goal in 10 games is very concerning and something to keep an eye on - an early indication he isn't able to drive offence which is okay as a winger but tough as a centreman who is paid as one who can.
Hopefully we see them apart the remainder of the season and ideally with a mix of different linemates as well to expand our database of knowledge. Putting them back together for that Montreal game was odd - maybe Sutter wanted to see the legend that is the ineffective duo of Big Game Sean and John.