After looking at some stats of our most important player compared to his mates and the way our team plays. I think we might be too harsh on him for the shooting /goal scoring case. Myself I get frustrated when Stu doesn't shoot in premier scoring area. But I just think he actually doesnt have have enough chance to use his shot because of his role on the team.
If look 5vs5 goals Stu is first and seconded by guy who shouldnt be there without removing the credit to Goalette:
It's actually obvious who we are trying to set up for shots Tkachuk , Norris are on top of the list. Followed by Bath, Giroux and secondary options. Last 2 guys are having one of their worst season sh% wise.Norris got injured for a long time so he shot might no be to the same level yet. Tkachuk is shooting double or more of these guys and it clearly not working. Am not saying Tkachuk or even Norris shouldnt shoot but there is a issue in the strategy of using proper skill set in the O zone.
Stu is having somehow one of his best season by stats and even when you watch games but it's not the case for all the stars ( or supporting cast at this point).
Tkachuk should get more deflect goals if coaching staff use him that way more effectively.Same thing for Stu on the PP he alwqys the set up guys cause the puck always go back to him in a setter position. If we look recently our PP is too obvious cause most team know that puck will always go back to Stu to create a chance.
In what world a Ahler like Gaudette play half of the minutes of our top6 guys and score more goals 5vs5 leading by 3 right. Yes they're having big slumps but they is a reason if it stays that long and I think coaching staff could be more creative with what they have.
Cresit to Gaudette he has a great start to the season and Green for teaching them how to play d as a team . But now it about using what we have to be effective offensively 5vs5.Best way is start by our best players Stu Tkachuk, Bath and Norris all can be better to really help us for the push.
Cause I dont think rental will really make a difference after trade deadline not in our situation and the hpcoming market.