I’d move Ruzicka down to the 4th line but in the center spot so he can begin to grow that part of his game at the NHL level and run a line. Lewis, Rooney and Lucic can share being the extra forward; I’d run with the following should Phillips be given a cup of coffee
Huberdeau - Lindholm - Toffoli
Dube - Mangiapane - Phillips
Mangiapane - Backlund - Coleman
Lucic - Ruzicka - Ritchie
Lewis, Rooney
Re-unite Mangi with the duo he played most with when he put up 35 goals with last year, give Phillips a chance to play with a high end center and Dube who plays a heavy game down low.
I get what Bingo is saying in that the flames brass might be harder pressed to give him a look if they feel they’re being coerced in a way by the media and fans to make a decision on the roster but really to me, the one who holds his destiny and chance in his hands is Phillips himself. He needs to keep his foot on the gas and bash the door down, if he puts up a December that’s similar to his November production I think they’ll be hard pressed not to give him a look.
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