If the Bruins decide to keep Pastrnak with Bergy and Marchy, that is fine....but based on that, I would prefer to give Krejci two legit top-6 wingers, DeBrusk and Johansson, to make sure he has a chance at returning to elite playoff warrior status. Krejci can be a game changer when he goes beast mode. They will need him to do that against TOR and/or Tampa.
Now...the question is, do we try to build something special around Coyle, even if it means splitting up our beloved 4th line? I believe yes. I like the idea of Heinen playing on the 3rd line with a possession king like Coyle. I also think Chris Wagner has shown he can be an effective finisher. Perhaps reuniting former teammates, Coyle and Wagner would bring the best out of their respective games.
This then leaves the Bruins with a tough decision. What to do with the 4th line? David Backes is having a down year by all measures......except for underlying stats, including faceoffs. If you compare Backes to Noel Acciari, however, at face value, there is no question Backes is the more effective player. The only question is...do you take a chance an give Backes the 4th line C role and let his wingers do their best to stretch out the ice? While Backes has trouble moving along the ice, he can still win face-offs, distribute the puck and stick up for his teammates. Karson Kuhlman might even be a better natural fit on the right side...hmmm. What do you guys think?
Marchand Bergeron Pastrnak
DeBrusk Krejci Johansson
Heinen Coyle Wagner
Kuraly Backes Kuhlman/Acciari
Nordstrom/Cehlarik