RUNNING LINES

The signing of Kris Versteeg allows us another opportunity to argue over lines for the coming season. It’s a fun activity—although the actual lines in an NHL season are in constant movement and our memories play tricks on us. A year ago, Connor McDavid spent most of his time with Benoit Pouliot, Jordan Eberle, Nail Yakupov and Patrick Maroon. This year? Suspect we see a big train on his portside.

The truth is, Connor McDavid had good numbers with everyone a year ago, and if the Oilers threw him out there again this season with Benoit Pouliot and Jordan Eberle the results would no doubt be outstanding. That said, Milan Lucic didn’t come hear to penalty-kill and the big man should give the 1line a unique power winger and an enforcer all in one.

This trio combined (in LA and in Edmonton) for 61 goals—despite missing over 50 games during the season. Is it reasonable to project them to score 75 goals this coming season? Thoughts?

The addition of Kris Versteeg on a PTO gives Todd McLellan the option of running a veteran, tough minutes secondary line with plenty of experience and some quality possession players.

If healthy, could this line score 50 goals? The trio scored 41 while missing almost 60 games a year ago—I think they could score more than 50 if given some power-play time. I think Nuge being healthy will be a major positive for this line.

The addition of Kris Versteeg gives the coaching staff more options up and down the lineup, but I decided to put three choices here. Jesse Puljujarvi is a helluva prospect, there is a chance he waltzed into camp and puts it all to rest early on. Zack Kassian has a story to tell, and Nail Yakupov is the most famous 8-goal scorer in the NHL. I could have put Iiro Pakarinen, Taylor Beck, Anton Slepyshev and others on a line here, but decided to stop at three options.

So.

What do you think? What is the best way to divide up the talent—assuming Kris Versteeg makes the roster and is healthy this coming year. I would love to hear your thoughts.