I'd rather keep the top two lines together and tinker with the bottom six. Given that it is unlikely that they will bench Thompson, I'd like to see JVR-Grant-Jake and Pitlick-Thompson-NAK to make the most of those players' strengths.

That's better than the current setup seen in game 1, but it also means effectively benching Frost for Thompson. Maybe I am just too high on the youth, but he showed good chemistry with G during the season. Would like to see him get his chance against Montreal.

I am with you that I would 100% rather play Frost than Thompson. I just don't think the thought of Frost in the bottom six is anything that the coaching staff will consider.

I understand that for maybe most coaches, but AV uses all his lines at even strength. I checked on hockey reference, and his third liners get about 15 minutes a night. Fourth liners get about 10 minutes at a minimum.

After the 5-0 beat down, and the missed empty netters in game 1, I am hoping AV makes the change to bring in more offense. Price is playing at an elite level, and Frost brings creativity and scoring talent. We need as much of that as we can get, or we're not treating the Habs seriously enough.