Games like the FLA one shine a light on the fact that Ekholm-Bouchard haven’t been as rock solid in the defensive zone as they were last season. They’re often getting reeled in by speedy forechecks this year and forcing bad passes.
Imo the team really needs one more Kulak-type (or better) to round out the D. Not to play with Nurse, but to break up Ekholm-Bouchard, and let them both get a partner with more speed.
Ekholm-Emberson have looked good together on the PK and could/should be able to work at evens, and Nurse-Kulak have been dominant together, so don’t break them up; That leaves you needing a smooth skating defenceman to go with Bouchard.
Before the snide (but correct) remarks of Broberg, who would be an ideal partner for Bouch? While I’m not a big fan of NHL Edge, as it doesn’t measure acceleration, in this case I do want what it judges as an elite skater: Someone that skates miles and does it fast. I also want someone with decent puck skills and vision, but plays a safe game. (Basically prime Sekera)
Of the UFAs to be, Provorov makes a ton of sense…
Nurse-Kulak
Provorov-Bouchard
Ekholm-Emberson
… but that would be a one and done and super expensive. Going for a cheaper option, I still really like the fit of Valimaki, who had a couple good seasons with the Yotes before losing his role to Sergachev this year. The fact that he’s only due 2mil next year also helps with the cap and fitting in Drai and Bouchard’s upcoming raises.
Nurse-Kulak
Ekholm-Emberson
Valimaki-Bouchard
Of course, you can still run Ekholm-Bouchard and have Valimaki-Emberson as a 3rd pairing. This gives you a release valve vs. heavy forechecks.