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4 Comments (2 conversations)
bikesovercars
Thanks for the great write up as always. I missed the 2nd and first half of the third. Sounds like a typical Stars game where we are the better team but they get more luck. So frustrating!! Love me some Parker Kelly, indeed.
Necas’ play is disappointing and concerning for playoff-time. I wish Bednar would experiment with him on the 2nd line. He and Nate are amazing together in most situations, except for when there’s less space. Last night was like the playoffs where the space disappears. Perhaps he can fit better where Nelson and Nichushkin bring the physicality and he brings the skill? Lehky-Nate-Landy is still a great combo on 1st line.
AJ Haefele
AuthorOne of the weird parts of having so many good players in the top 9 (when healthy, obviously) is that it means it could take time to find the best combinations. The other hard part is how we define “best.” Does that mean highest ceiling, or most consistent? Those aren’t always the same things. Bednar’s spot is both great (the options!) and bad (better get it right!).
munyard
Just make sure that Landy is off the ice or covered in bubblewrap anytime Makar is around and that top line provides all the ingredients needed for success. I like the idea of Necas with Val and Nelson, the later two aren’t afraid to be physical, while Necas can just circle and wait for a scoring opportunity should he suddenly decide to start shooting, he’s a sniper when he wants to be. It was maddening watching him pass up so many chances last night to just get the puck on net. Playoffs or not the only way to beat Dallas is with those greasy goals that get Otter moving and out of position.
RockD
If it’s anything like it was in’22 then Bednar will set a 4th line he trusts, like Drury-Kelly-LOC and let them roll. He’ll mix and match the top 6 and use the 3rd line for backfill or specific matchups.
I feel like Kadri will be a wildcard and we could see him getting shifts with all 3 top 9 lines if everyone is available