Scriptor
Registered User
- Jan 1, 2014
- 7,893
- 4,872
That looks great!!
i really like the idea of having Caufield with KK or Suzuki. Both have really great vision and I think would be great at getting Caufield the puck
On the surface, both Cs are great playmakers and either one should be able to set up Caufield.
However, from what I gather about Caufield's game when he's at his best, he's always moving around and weaving in and out of defensive coverage so he makes himself difficult to pinpoint.
The C on Caufield's line, along with a LW that isn't afraid to occupy the crease, will need to buy time so Caufield can seize the moment and find open ice. It only takes a minute amount of time for Caufield to release the puck on net -- That's one element of his shot that makes it elite. Precision and strength are the other two.
For now, from what I've seen from Suzuki and Kotkaniemi (call it one season each, if you will, because last season wasn't a good one to evaluate for Kotkaniemi), The 'Nature of Things' is a much more dynamic C than Kotkaniemi. I reckon, he can thus better challenge the opposing D and help break down the defensive coverage, create more space and unexpected open ice and allow Caufield to pick his spots better.
Of course, that can all change quickly as Kotkaniemi matures, fills in and becomes sturdier on his skates. At that point, he might well be able to use his physique to better challenge the opposing D, buy more time and send off a pass where Caufield will swoop in to convert.
Again, the good news with Caufield is the quick release and the varied shot arsenal. He's also a pretty good passer, something he definitely isn't given enough credit for.
I'm personally really curious to see if Caufield can establish a give and go with either Suzuki or Kotkaniemi where he dishes them the puck and beelines for open ice to get ready to unwind on the return pass?