|
The secondary scoring could be an issue. With Bonino out, it understandably juggles the lines, and forces some guys into spots where they are either playing better competition, or outside of their natural position. Gotta give the guys credit for stepping up; however, just like Johansen's injury in the playoffs last year, missing a key top-line center takes a toll on a team.
Emelin has looked pretty decent on the defensive end, but Ellis' injury is forcing him to play top 4 minutes. I would feel a lot better about this D with Emelin anchoring the 3rd pair. Weber & Irwin have been mediocre at best, and responsible for some of the bad giveaways and positioning Paul mentioned.
The funny thing is, I had Rinne as the biggest question mark before the season started. And he (along with the JoFA line) have been the most stable thing about the team through 10% of the season. To me, the biggest questions now are: When do Ellis and Bonino get back? Do the Preds send Girard back down to Junior? Will Calle Jarnkrok become more aggressive with the puck on his stick? |
