Quoting: Jimbo1119
How about putting him in the PP slot Kane had end of last year?
Comes down to whether Lav looks to placate his vets OR do what's best for the longer term picture. Of course if LaF was inserted on PP1 he would have to perform. But he would need a generous window of opportunity to show he belongs (or doesn't belong) there. And the important thing to realize is that IF he is given PP1 opportunity and shows to fit in there, the resulting production should generate confidence and assertiveness which should REALLY benefit whatever line he is on (1st, 2nd or 3rd).
4 spots are taken on PP1. Panarin, Kreider, Zibenejad and Fox.
For the 5th spot, he has to be better than: Trocheck (more of a 2 way player), Wheeler (36 years old), Chytil (currently ahead of Lafreniere developmentally), and Kakko (closest in standing, but better at winning puck battles).
If he can legitimately outperform all those players to earn the 5th spot, he'll have every opportunity you want him to have. If not, the blame is on him.