Quote:
Originally Posted by GranteedEV
Huberdeau - Lindholm - Toffoli have zero 5v5 goals together in the last three games actually (and their larger sample is hardly impressive offensively, though they're not necessarily hurting us defensively). And they have an underwhelming xGF% of 50.94 in those three games, along with a goal against the only goal event for that trio. They did score an empty-netter, but.. it was an empty netter.
Mangiapane - Kadri - Dube have fared better offensively, with 2 goals and 1 goal against, but still have an underwhelming xGF% of 49.91 in those games. Their larger sample is concerning as they have 49.27% xGF% over 185:00 minutes together, despite being the runaway line that gets the softest usage in the top nine in terms of defensive zone faceoffs.
The only forward combo that genuinely seems to be clicking 5v5 over that three game win streak is Ruzicka-Backlund, accounting for 5 goals for and 1 goal against, and an xGF% of 73.39. Mangiapane scored one of those goals with them, and Coleman has been in on the rest. This duo is carrying us 5v5.
Not to take away from powerplay goals and empty-netters, but I don't think the top nine is above reproach based on either the three game win streak or the larger sample of the season. I would have to imagine Sutter is aware of this.
Am I concerned about Phillips on the fourth line? No.
Are two of the top three lines on the team still really struggling? Yes.
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Oh I know ... believe me.
But not sure it's fair to say one line isn't producing but has good numbers, and the other line producing with weak numbers and call them both struggling.
It's one or the other isn't it?
You either go with underlying numbers and suggest the 2nd line has continue to fight it, or go with actual results and say the top line isn't getting it done.