- Joined
- Jun 8, 2019
- Messages
- 566
I think QB will need to stay at the wing for another season, unless their is an injury to one of the other centers. There are already 3 centers, so one of them would need to move to the wing to make room for QB. So, I think step #1 is to get PLD's overall performance up to where it needs to be. Worry about getting QB time at center after that happens.
My biggest worry is that we keep QB at wing for too long to the point where he has trouble making the transition to center in the NHL. Granted, players are typically able to make the switch between positions but usually in short stints.
I agree either PLD or Byfield likely need to play wing, at least until Kopi retires, but I feel we should prioritize Byfield as he is more likely to play a more significant role in our future success.
I was a big fan of PLD's exit interview. He came off as humble, taking ownership and committed to put in the work to improve. What I did not like, however, was his insistence that he is a center. Money and contract aside, I believe he makes a better wing currently and would pair well on a line with Kopitar (who potentially also could help him build his 2-way game).
If kept at center, and we bring Arvy back, I hope we pair them up on a line and start to gauge other options during the season with the Danault line which proved less effective than desired during the playoffs. Danault could use some size on one of his wings.