Quote:
Originally Posted by Bingo
You see Gaudreau and Monahan as consistent "on my back boys" number one line candidates?
They've disappeared for two straight playoff seasons.
They are some of the most sheltered players on the team.
You can reject my notion, but I'm going to reject your rejection.
Top line core players don't need to be sheltered, and tend to show up in the biggest games. I'm not slagging the duo, they're excellent hockey players, but they've become second line and powerplay guys more than play driving complete first line "contending team" forwards.
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The problem is that the lineup is completely flawed. Half of the forwards are comprised of players that can't handle the puck in traffic, can't snipe a goal, and players who typically shy away from physical play.
There is not a single true trigger man or shooter that can make things happen. Gaudreau's single best option is a garbage man (Monahan) who is useless outside the blue paint, and Bennett who can't even process what to do on the ice with skill players.
This is on the GM 100%. If the team is supposed to be successful by committee, you've got to at least assemble a deep team of competent players to do it.