Bennett seems like an ideal fit for Crosby, a RHS, creative offense-first winger. We know Sid can score goals at a ridiculous pace, we need a guy that can complement that aspect of his game while being a threat to score goals himself. That is BB.
I don't quite see Bylsma's line logic going into camp. Dupuis and Kunitz serve the same third-wheel function, doesn't make sense to put them on the same line when you can spread them out. 13-87-9 and 14-71-18 gives you two dynamic duos and two quality third-wheel guys to grind and work the boards.
The only real question is whether BB is ready to handle the NHL pace and physicality, which I think he is. His talent and growth are wasted in WBS with the lack of offensive talent down there.
Disagree. I don't believe BB is ready to handle NHL speed, physicality, 200-ft & defensive play, and mental stamina for a (condensed) NHL season, and then elevate all those things to yet another level for the playoffs.
I think highly of BB and think he will ultimately be there, and if he keeps up the training & conditioning he did with T.R. going into next offseason, I think he'll be ready to make the jump next year. Yes, WBS sucks right now, but they will right the ship eventually and he can be a big part of their success; and there's still merit to him conintuing to learn the system down there, how to be a pro and how to be a 200-ft player. And if they don't make the playoffs as we all would hope, then bring him up here to be part of the Black Aces, which will still be incredible experience and exposure for the guy, even if he doesn't get to play.
And to the OP's question: will he be Crosby's Neal? I think the answer is yes, he can be a guy who can play with Sid or Geno. But he has to continue to take his strength & speed to an even higher level to get there, and it will be important to find a good 3rd guy on that line to do some of the mucking & grinding, as well. But Crosby will open up a ton of room for BB to be creative, and if he can raise his game high enogh, BB will be able to do the same for Crosby. He's got that much upside.