I’m not a fan of Thornton on the first line. I want more speed and physicality next to Matthews since the right side will be fulfilled by Nylander or Marner. Thornton is an ageing and slowing hall of famer who should be playing against softer competition at this stage of his career.
I realize that Matthews and Marner are essentially a tandem that could probably carry HFboards posters, but I don’t like it.
Agreed. I don't like the idea of Thornton on the 1st line long-term, but for the first few games of the season it could set the right tone for the top guys. His foot speed and hands have fallen off quite a bit, he won't be able to keep pace with AM34/MM16 over the course of a season, but he'll demand accountability and will send a message to other teams.
Eventually, I expect Robertson to win-out a spot, at which point Thornton slides down to the bottom six and hopefully we see that tandem together. On paper, that's a match made in heaven and Jumbo would be a great mentor for NR.
I like the idea of Hyman on the 3rd line. Vastly improves that line's shutdown capabilities and forechecking. First time I can remember Hyman being tried outside of the top 6 since his rookie season, where he's been attached at the hip to Matthews/Tavares. I think both Hyman and Mikheyev on the 3rd line is overkill and leaves the top 6 LW depleted a bit, though.
One thing to note - Keefe looks to be doing a lot of experimenting without a pre-season and with a condensed schedule/shortened season. There shouldn't be much leash given to these guys if the experiment sputters.