So you just dismiss his average of 2 hits per game while averaging only 9 minutes of ice time (which was even lower until the last 2-3 weeks). You’re saying he didn’t initiate the contact? And I am sorry, but using your size/speed/strength to bully your way around defenders is a product of playing physical. Now that doesn’t count? ESPECIALLY when pretty much no one else plays that way on this team?
Some things that are counted as hits for stats that are not even close to being as much as breathed on. Look at the game. When was the last time he actually threw a hit?
When I think of physical play, not I just do not focus on using your size speed combination to get through bodies. That is exactly what I refer to when I am talking about Rick Nash. So if you believe that Nash was a physical player, then you also believe that Gauthier is. Which is fine, but I do not share that conclusion.
It certainly feels like Quinn has them drawing straws, which is a part of the problem. Like everything else with Quinn coached teams, there is no consistency. PDG should not be playing at this point.
In the abstract, I agree with you that PDG should be the one sitting. But then that comes down as to who plays the role of a 4th liner better? PDG, does use his body for something besides trying to go around defenders. Gauthier does not. That is simply just not the player that he is. So perhaps that is what is being searched for on the 4th line?
He does generate offense and chances. I really dont know what else to tell you. Again, in the extremely limited time he has on the ice, the play finds its way towards the front of the net. Could be a pass from behind the net after winning a puck battle that he creates, could be snapping a shot, could just be him driving towards the net around the edge. The production is light but again... it is 9-10 minutes per game. Sometimes less.
Gauthier's play has gotten noticeably better, ever so slowly. Which is an example of the coaching staff working with him. And yes, he gets little ice time. But I would like to see a lot more. And I wind up seeing less. But again, it would be foolish to say that his game has not improved.
His defensive and all around game is improving. He has drawn quite a few penalties. There is more of a future with Gauthier. Or at least there is potential there. Why the hell are we playing PDG in a year that is considered a developmental/progress year? It doesnt make any sense. If Quinn wanted to make the playoffs he should have had his team prepared and ready to play on a more consistent basis throughout the year. Not sacrifice his youth for a lame playoff run because the team is behind the 8 ball from his wonderful ability to get the most out of his team
PDG does not really matter for the future. To be hones, I am not sure of how long Gauthier is for the team either. He has to crack the top 3 RW to be a part of the future. As of right now, while Buchnevich is here, I do not see that as a long term solution. Heck, he may not be in the family picture for long even if Buchevich is not here.
I like enough of him to want to see more and, gun to head, would probably rather see him instead of PDG, but for what he (Gauthier) is currently bringing to the table, it is just not that much of a big deal to me.
