Follow @james_tanner123 A recent trend in the NHL, likely stemming from the increased application of analytics to hockey strategy and roster construction, is the eliminating of top-six/ bottom-six line combinations where the third-line is a "shut-down" line.
Teams have realized that having a first or second-line quality C on their third line offers them way better depth, balance and favorable matchups.
The Penguins won the Cup with three separate players down the middle putting up first- line comparable stats. The Oilers, Leafs, Jets, Coyotes and several other teams look poised to be able adopt this strategy, should they wish to, as their young players develop.
Nearly every team is moving away from having a strictly checking third-line.
Unfortunately, determining who is a third line centre is often tough. Especially when you don't follow every team super-closely and when most teams have made changes over the summer and have rookies coming up etc.
So what I'm hoping for is a little help. You probably know your favorite team better than me, so take a gander at that list and lets use today's comments section to decide on a proper list of 3rd line centres.
Make a good argument for a change to my list and I'll adjust it as the day goes on, then move into analyzing the players in pt. 2.
If you think a different player than is listed should earn the title of 3C, then tell me why and who replaces him. If at all possible, try to do so without calling me an idiot or insulting my mother.
Thanks in advance for the help.