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Originally Posted by flylock shox
I totally agree with the bolded. I remember the first time watching Bennett and Gaudreau paired up at the Young Stars and they seemed so complementary. I never thought Monahan had the speed or quickness to match Gaudreau and have been really surprised the duo has worked as well as it has.
That's why I've been a bit concerned watching Bennett so far this season and preseason. I haven't seen the same flashes of creativity and game-breaking skill (much less finishing) that I had hoped to see. I wasn't expecting him to be a game-changer, but usually with the really skilled young guys you see about a play a game where their potential shines through.
If he can get himself up to NHL size/speed though, I still like him as Gaudreau's future linemate. A big-bodied sniper on the other wing and you could have a phenomenal first line, leaving Monahan as a very potent second line center. But, based on what I've seen so far, I think that's at least 2 full seasons away.
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I'd say Bennett has had at least one moment per game. Of course his speed and skill won't be head and shoulders above the regular guys like it was in junior. Just like (until the Flames made him look good) McDavid was just an average player so far. I think a lot is thinking the game faster, not just skating faster.
