Line 1:
McDavid, MacKinnon, Point Has there EVER been a faster line in NHL history? I believe Point players the perfect counter to the amazing McDavid/MacKinnon Duo.
Crosby, Marchand, Bergeron They are all still strong players and their history and chemistry is undeniable. Plus what Marchand brings sandpapered and Bergeron brings the defense. Tavares, Marner, Stone Keeping the Leafs together along with one of the gutsiest and clutch players in the NHL is huge. Stone is a big time leader.
Couturier, Huberdeau, O’Reilly This line gives you a little of everything. Couturier could join Bergeron in the PK and as a shutdown line along with point. O’Reilly simply annoys everyone around him and is a very strong playmaker himself. Huberdeau can step into any of the top three lines if someone is hurt of struggling to score.
Defense
Thomas Chabot-Cale Makar This duo feels like they were made to play together. Makar is fast becoming the best offensive D-man since Paul Coffey and Chabot is smart and fast enough to cover for Cale
Shea Theodore-Alex Pietrangelo Hard to argue with what both of these players are. And their familiarity is huge is a short tournament.
Adam Pelach-Aaron Ekblad This last duo is going to depend on the early season NHL play of defenders including Pelach, Ekblad, Morgan Reilly, Hamilton, Parayko, Chycrun and even someone not mentioned. If all these players play to the top of their game I truly believe Pelach and Ekblad are the two best.
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Goalie:
Carey Price He has shown once again that in a clutch big-time role he is as good as anyone.
Marc Andre-Fleury Same as Price, maybe even better…Big game saves are what MAF is all about.
Carter Hart Similar to the Final D pairing, the NHL season will decide between Hart, Blackwood, Binnington and maybe even Kuemper. However I believe the powers in charge of Team Canada believe Carter Hart to be their future and will want to get him some experience being around the team
Final Thoughts.. Maybe the best 12 forwards Canada has EVER put on the ice. The Defense is as good as any in the world too…I believe this team is easily the team to beat…
What’s the Buzz? Do you agree with my lineup? If not, make your case in the comments below.