I think our biggest flaw in our defense last season was depth of actual defensive defensemen, I also think with the additions of Lauzon and McDonagh, have helped that.
Going into last season we had Benning and Boro as the 3rd paring which neither are talented enough to be shutdown defenders, Carrier can't play a stay at home role or anything close to it. Fabbro got better but he's not there, so all you really had was Ekholm. That's not much balance. And honestly, you want Ekholm to be able to join the rush some too, having Carrier as a partner prevented that. That's why I'd like to see Ekholm with Fabbro, I think having a more reliable partner will help Fabbro, and having a more defensive minded partner will also allow Ekholm to join the rush a bit more. IMHO, Ekholm is better joining the rush than Carrier. McDonagh is used to that shutdown role, so put him with Josi, to continue to allow Josi to be that rover style defenseman.
Carrier can carry the puck with Lauzon, in fact Lauzon needs that type partner, so they help balance each other while playing more protected minutes.
As far as how bad were we up front. McCarron, Cousins, Tolvanen, Luff, Kunin, Smith, all had below expected seasons for whatever reason. I think the additions Glass, Nino and the maturation of Tomasino and Tolvanen will help us there.
I'd like to know the defenses you have 1-5 if the Predators are 6th. As well as what 6 goalies are better than Saros.
Not saying you're wrong, just curious.
