I would say that Duehr is a lock to make the team.
I also think that Ruzicka wouldn't be out of place centering the 4th line this year, as this year it seems that it is likely to be more than just an energy line. Last year was an energy line/punishment and intimidation line. This year is more like to be an energy line/chip in offensively line, even with Pelletier out.
A bottom line of Duehr - Ruzicka - Pelletier/Zary/Hunt/ can probably start chipping in if chemistry develops, and if you put Klapka there, you probably lower the amount of points a little bit, but you make this into a very difficult line to play against as they will be very good on the forecheck, while still making plays.
Whatever way it ends up being, my point is that I wouldn't want another year of Ruzicka centering Lucic and Brett Ritchie. Ruzicka taking reps as a centre even on the 4th line would't be the end of the world as long as the line is put together in a way that allows for some offence. I don't think you can really make a line this year that won't generate more than last year, but the trade-off is that they won't be policing or intimidating anyone this year.
|