Or maybe he just needs someone more skilled to play with than Charlie Coyle, for whom it could also be stated, happily cashed in a couple months of inspired play at the end of 2019, and has retreating to his level of play in Minnesota, which is a real dagger for a team desperate for a number 2 center.
To me, Coyle is the most aggravating player on this roster because we’ve seen what he can be when he’s engaged and motivated. Last year’s excuse was the knee. What’s his excuse this year?
I agree with a lot of the criticism levied in this thread. Hall is an interesting case because it seems like he enjoys temping on the first line but is more comfortable not having to be “the guy.” Hall meshes well with Pasta.
I think the team needs to split up the first line and build around pairings that have shown some spark.
Marchand & Bergeron
Hall & Pasta
Coyle & Haula
Frederic & Foligno
Mix and match Smith (I’d try 1RW), DeBrusk (3LW), Studnicka (2C between Hall and Pasta), Nosek (4th W), Blidh, Lazar, Seny, Steen, Kuhlman…until you find the right combinations. If they can upgrade 2C, great. But I’m not sure I’d spend the ammunition this year. I’d prefer they see what they have in Studnicka as an offensive playmaker.