That's why I call him a utility forward. He's "capable" of playing multiple roles when needed. He CAN play up the lineup... you just don't want him there long term. If he's there long term, he's going to be exploited by better teams, like we've seen in the post season against teams with real top 6 centers.I mean he didn't really play with Kaprizov last season and was injured or coming off injuries and still put up 21 goals in 74 games. I'd say that is more middle 6 than anything.
3rd line is in the "middle 6"