Although the Montreal Canadiens continue to hang out at the top of their division, there’s still a situation that remains unresolved as they get ready to face some pretty tough opponents in December. I’m talking about the glaring hole that’s still evident on the second line, which head coach Jacques Martin has thus far taken to filling with third and fourth-line grinders.
While Scott Gomez’s play as the line’s centerman has left a lot to be desired, he is not entirely to blame for this line’s current ineffectiveness. Without a legitimate second winger, this line is very easy for opposing defenders to shut down.
Gomez is primarily a playmaker, and does not tally goals like first-line pivot, Tomas Plekanec. With only one finisher available on his line to make plays, opposing teams need only pressure Gomez, cover the winger and all but ignore the line’s grinder, who is hardly a scoring threat.
To their credit, the Habs have jumped off to a strong start this season despite what I perceive to be a noticeable disadvantage. However I’d like it fixed sooner than later, so here’s my usual attempt at ...
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Article written by Rosalyn Roy
Montreal Canadiens: What Should the Habs Do to Fix the 2nd Line?
November 29th, 2010 by Rosalyn Roy Leave a reply »
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