That 3rd line C spot is very tough to gauge. Gordon at No.3 C doesn't make sense the way the Oilers play him: Heavy defensive zone starts really limit him offensively in any way, it's kind of impressive he has 21 points this season. If they want to keep that up, the 4th line role makes more sense, because he'd still get high minutes (on PK and for face-offs) despite the EV role.
Problem is, who do you slot in the No.3 C role? Here are the candidates, and why I'm not a fan or am a fan:
Mark Arcobello-Smart, offensive, nice passing ability, but also small and has a poor NHL shot.
Brian Boyle-Big, physical, but basically is Boyd Gordon give or take
Steve Ott or Dave Bolland-Both great fits, both want great money
Josh Bailey-will get you around 30-35 points, but has he done much in New York? Is Gagner a worthy price? Also is overpaid.
Olli Jokinen-Big, provides some offense, also might be too much $ and tends to be lazy
Mikhail Grabovski-Underrated, but does he want to be a No.3 C? Debatable.
Mike Santorelli-Played fantastic in Vancouver, but can it keep up?
Lars Eller-Big, physical, but what price would Montreal be looking for?
Mathieu Perreault-Having a nice season in Anaheim, but would they deal him with prospects on the horizon?
Shawn Horcoff-I'm kidding of course....although if Dallas kept half of his salary, then what happens?
Antoine Vermette-UFA in 2015, of course he's a big part of the team so it'd take assets for him to move
Kyle Brodziak-Remember him?
Anton Lander-This was supposedly his spot in future lineups, but his development hasn't helped him reach it, doesn't look like he's better than even Arcobello
