Absolutely in favour of breaking up Gaudreau and Monahan. I understand the difficulty in breaking up a pairing that has worked so well. My reasoning is that the two of them together are in fact holding back some of Monahans progression, as he is tasked with following Johnnys lead. I think that he is capable of being a line driver, and putting him in the back seat is doing the team a disservice.
Tkachuk has also been held back playing with Backlund, who just doesn't have the offensive capability to finish the fast passes that Tkachuk thrives on. Monahan has those hands.
I would round out the right wing with Bennett on the second line, as he would complement Tkachuk with his boardwork, and make room for Monahan, hopefully keeping him healthy.
Lastly I would look at Mangiapane or Dube on the top line. Flames fans hate 'gifting' players, but there is speed and tenacity to spare with both of them.
Gaudreau-Lindholm-Dube/Mangiapane
Tkachuk-Monahan-Bennett
Dube Mangiapane-Backlund-Neal
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"We don't even know who our best player is yet. It could be any one of us at this point." - Peter LaFleur, player/coach, Average Joe's Gymnasium
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