Full credit to Minnesota for playing a hard-checking textbook road game, they gave us nothing for free offensively. Maybe with better bounces we could've scored another goal or two but to me it seemed that every unit (top line included) was struggling to connect with some critical passes even though the effort level was great again.
I'd keep Pyyhtia on the 2nd or 3rd line when some injured forwards are ready to join the lineup. I think he's got enough speed, consistent puck management and hockey sense to build chemistry with other skill guys.
I wonder what are the key areas of focus and details in Fantilli's development plan this season (assuming there is a such plan). Aside from maybe not being a complete liability in d zone, so far he's looked as chaotic as ever, not really clicking with anyone offensively. Is he going to play center all year?
I think you overrate his hockey sense, but on the other hand, he's certainly better than Aston-Reese.
Fantilli played with JvR, Lebanc, Aston-Reese and Danforth. I don't think those are players that a technical player will have ideal chemistry with. It's just a shame they didn't try him with Johnson when Kent was fine.
Of course there are things that partners don't influence, that's where he needs to improve.
I would like:
Chinakhov /23/ - Monahan /30/ - Marchenko /24/
Voronkov /24/ - Fantilli /20/ -
Johnson /22/
Pyyhtia /23/ - Sillinger /21/ - Danforth /31/
Aston-Reese /30/ - Kuraly /31/ - Olivier /27/
Jenner will return only in March and if we do not get good veterans I do not see any reason to play with JvR and Labanc.
Think, Brindley should play especially in the AHL this season.