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Lightning Notes: Jonathan Drouin Opens Camp at Center |
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Despite the fact that most people had him penciled in on a line with Steven Stamkos and Martin St. Louis, Jonathan Drouin began the Tampa Bay Lightning’s 2013-14 training camp playing at center ice between Brett Connolly and Vlad Namestnikov.
Jon Cooper, the Lightning’s head coach, was adamant that his staff is going to try different players in different situations; testing Jonathan Drouin at center does exactly that. Drouin, for his part, was incredibly comfortable with the switch from the left to the middle. As he continues to fight for a spot on the Lightning roster, he made it abundantly clear that he is willing to do whatever it takes and play wherever the team wants him.
Damian Cristodero from the Tampa Bay Times caught up with both Cooper and Drouin:
Rather than Drouin, it was Ryan Malone who started the day beside Stamkos and St. Louis. After tallying only six goals and eight points in 24 games during the 2013 season, ‘Bugsy’ is looking to have a rebound year in 2013-14. With Vincent Lecavalier out of the picture, the Lightning will need Malone’s presence now more than ever. His feisty style combined with his heart-and-soul attitude make him an invaluable resource both on and off the ice.
Of course, it should be noted training camp is only one day old. What we saw today isn’t necessarily what we’ll see three months from now. Over the course of the next few weeks, Cooper and Co. will try out a plethora of line combinations in an attempt to build the best possible roster for opening night. That night, October 3rd, is only a few weeks away.
As always, thanks for reading.
Ottawa Senators Blogger • 
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