I've had some sleep on this after last night. I thought overall we looked better last night than in Pittsburgh and certainly in LA.
In my opinion, the problem lies in our lack of scoring depth. The first line is doing it for us with the three averaging PPG between them. All on pace for their best seasons points wise. They are doing this while Suzuki and Slaf haven't looked all that impressive.
On the second line, we were all hoping to welcome back the Dach from the first two games last year, and the back half of the season from 22/23. Reality is setting in, that he is not the same player currently. Hopefully by game 20, he will be there, but it is clear, he can't carry Newhook and Armia. Both of those guys are third line players IMO. Armia should get pushed out by our young guys in time.
We really need to hit with Laine, but I think we should expect a similar slow start with him to what we are seeing with Dach. He will need a considerable amount of time to get back up to game speed.
We really need to hit with Demidov. He has the ability to make the second line a dynamic threat all up and down the ice.
We really need to hit with Hage. When you look at teams like Dallas, they have built a deep team that has stars up and down the ice, and a succession plan for aging vets. I pumped a lineup earlier that I hope will become our future and it involves Hage taking over the 2nd line centre spot and pushing Dach down to third line centre. My hope is that by 26/27 it is our starting lineup.
Finally,
We absolutely need to hit with Reinbacher. We DO NOT have a 1st line RD of the future. If he can develop as his draft pedigree should suggest, I will be very happy. Mailloux should be able to be a capable 2nd pair RD, and 3rd pair RD's can found in free agency. If Rein is not a 1st pair guy, we need to go out and find one to match with Hutson, or draft one. Drafting is not the preferable option, unless it is superstar potential who can step in quickly.
I believe our left side is stacked up nicely. Hutson is a #1. That I have no doubt about. He needs a defensively responsible compliment (hopefully Rein), to give him the rope to be creative.
Guhle is a perfect 2nd pair LD, and I think paired with Mailloux, they will be a long term solid pair.
Bottom pair, can be a combination of Struble, Xhekaj, Barron or Engstrom for all I care. Those guys can get the job done with limited minutes. Ultimately it is that #1 RD that I am most worried about.
So the illustrious tank threads have been shut down, numerous times. Do I think we should tank? No....but more opportunities to hit on that #1 RD and #2 Centre is not a bad thing. The trade/UFA market is always there for those spots. But, we will be paying through our ass for a #1RD.
Don't fret my friends. I feel like we are still doing something good!
Time for a beer?
NOT YET!