That's exactly what I'd do. I don't think Arniel will hesitate to swap guys if they struggle to start.I wouldnt be surprised if they bump pionk up to top pairing - and use miller abd demelo.as vet stabilizers
This alignment was my preference. Keep the first pair intact as we know it works well, and give them a bit more ice time, if necessary.
I've been impressed with Fleury. I think he can play a complimentary 2-way role with Pionk, keeping the size that we lost with Samberg.
I'm less sure of Miller anywhere but the third pairing, but he will give stability to that pairing in a sheltered role as Heinola adjusts again to the NHL.
I think at this point they will treat Villie as any other player, as tonight's lineup suggests. You move the #3 guy up and insert the guy playing his 1st game in at #3. Miller is a capable 3rd pairing vet, that along with some sheltering should be enough for Villie. I don't think you want to mess with your top pairing unless you get desperate, and if that is the case not a good outcome for Villie.I can see swapping Miller and DeMelo to better support Ville at first. Not saying that is necessary but it might be an option. Not sure how badly Miller would do with JMo in the top pair. It might cost Morrissey's offence.
So what do you think about Stanley coming back?
He's going to get into the lineup sooner rather than later.
Who comes out?
I think you go back with Stanley and Miller. Miller is quietly showing that he can handle some defensive responsibility this year. And I wonder if at some point he starts getting some playing time with Morrissey since De Melo hasn't been as steady this year. Melo and Stanley could be the 1st unit PK for the time Samberg is out.
I'd like to see Heinola with Pionk for a game or two, what that looks like. I feel like Pionk is a better player with a better skater on his side. Heinola can cover a lot of ice and I think with a puck moving line like the Ehlers line there's some offensive opportunities there. At some point maybe gets some PP2 time?
He has been diagnosed as not zdeno chara.What is the latest update on Stanley’s status?
As of Wednesday he ditched the yellow non contact jersey for a regular one, so I expect with a practice he is good to go. IC's change of servers has given them some hiccups, so no more info.What is the latest update on Stanley’s status?
Replace Pionk with who?Heinola is a going to get a run of games, to see how he progresses and conditions. His IQ and puck moving ability are far better than Stanley's and Samberg's. If his speed gets back to normal he's a great add to our D.
Stanley is not only a liability at times he gets untimely penalties.
Samberg has had a good start. But he definitely has lapses and is best suited to a simple game with a puck moving partner. His size and shot blocking are great.
Pionk is a wild card. He's great when playing 100, a liability when he isn't. I'd trade him.