Quoting: jnowariak
I’m on board for everything you said, especially the part about letting Kevin be Kevin. The real question though, Mojo or Rask? I find it hard to believe MoJo won’t be playing and I really like the idea of him on that 4th line.
To be honest, I completely spaced out on Mojo when thinking out the roster there. 😆
But after mulling it over, I don't think the answer will be a popular one. But let me try to explain my reasoning here anyway.
The main issue at hand, is the same as it's always been, an overabundance of wingers and not enough roster spots. Ironically we don't have enough right now with Lizard out of the lineup and as we saw when Sturm was out do to sickness. Hunt played LW for us.
That's a problem. But it'll be the opposite once Zuccarello's back, so how do we balance everyone and who do we play.
For me, Sturm's earned the right to play on this roster. He's been absolutely rock solid out there and looked fantastic doing it. Tradition says he's the odd man out, but I wouldn't do it. Keep the kid in there, we need his energy.
Rask? He hasn't been great the last few games and that comes as no surprise. But here's the unpopular bit, I play him over Mojo right now. I'll say why below...
Hartman? He's been an absolute stud, bottom line is he's not coming out.
Overall that 4th line has looked great so far this year. I don't know what it is. Chemistry? Overall fit? But right now it just works, don't mess with it.
Here's what I propose, in order to keep Mojo in the lineup. It relies heavily on his positional flexibility and why I think he's perfect for the role.
One thing we know for certain is this season is going to be an absolute grind, and we're already seeing the effects of playing a baseball type style season. The wear and tear on players is real. Especially our players that are currently over 30 years old.
After Zuccarello gets back into the lineup, rotate one of Parise, Zuccarello and Bonino and give them a night off every third game. Mojo plays in their place.
Mojo stays in the lineup and the Old Guys stay rested.
Thoughts?