something i want to try when Poitras is back

I have not gotten to see Merk play. But is there a decent chance of that 1st line getting caved? Pasta plays D, but he is obviously offense-first. I wonder if Merk can work with Zacha to help cover things on D?

Geekie has 8 points in last 10 games playing center and bigger role. You think moving him to RW4 for unproven player to play LW1 is great idea?

I want Merk to get a shot at PT, but let’s not get crazy.

Geekie is fine, end of the day he's a bottom 6 guy. Putting up points next to the best RW in hockey doesn't change that. I want to see what Merk can do farther up in the lineup though.

the whole reason Merk got called up is cause his 2-way play has been really good in Providence this year, it's not a weakness in his game anymore

Says who? He’s been used as a bottom 6 guy because there has been no place for him to play everywhere he’s been in the NHL.

He was a productive player in juniors and minors. Last season his 5v5 point production per minute was 52nd in the league. For perspective there are 192 “top 6” slots in the NHL.

He’s producing, playing well, the line works. Leave it alone. (Something Monty is incapable of LoL)

My guess is he goes back to AHL when Poitras returns, unless they are willing to play him on 4th line. A possibility, but he does not fit a 4th line role. Plays a very soft game.