Sutter seperates Elias/Gionta and Madden/Pandolfo

The Devils had some interesting line combinations for this morning's practice. Head coach Brent Sutter had rookie Nicklas Bergfors in Brian Gionta's usual spot at right wing on the top line with Patrik Elias and Dainius Zubrus. Gionta moved to the second line with Zach Parise and Travis Zajac, filling the spot where the injured Jamie Langenbrunner used to skate.

Also notable was Sutter's use of center John Madden at left wing on the third line with rookie Rod Pelley at center and Arron Asham on the right side. Madden's longtime linemate, left wing Jay Pandolfo, was moved to the fourth line with Sergei Brylin at center and Mike Rupp and David Clarkson alternating at the other wing.
http://njmg.typepad.com/devilsblog/2007/09/line-shake-ups.html

Elias-Zubrus-Bergfors
Parise-Zajac-Gionta
Madden-Pelley-Asham
Pandolfo-Brylin-Clarkson/Rupp

Very interesting.

http://njmg.typepad.com/devilsblog/2007/09/line-shake-ups.html (http://njmg.typepad.com/devilsblog/2007/09/line-shake-ups.html)

Elias-Zubrus-Bergfors
Parise-Zajac-Gionta
Madden-Pelley-Asham
Pandolfo-Brylin-Clarkson/Rupp

Very interesting.
Hence the rolling of four lines. Madden-Pelley-Asham will still probably be our "matchup" line at different times, but if the lines stay this way, I feel very comfortable rolling all four lines.

Then again, it ain't even October yet.

You know I thought it looked like Pelley was playing center for a few shifts against the Isles with Madden on the wing.

I am just so excited, this season is going to be very interesting.

Anyone got numbers?

Awesome.. Something new everyday with Sutter... I'm loving it.

I've wanted to see that 2nd line combo last year too

Zajac's assists just doubled, basically.

Asham is not a third liner. He is too slow, doesnt pass/see the ice as well. I know sutter thinks the checking line is overated, but this move is rediculous. You do not break up Pandolfo and Madden.

Zubrus, Brylin and Zajac are not great on face offs. Madden and Pelley are the only ones who are good at it on the team, and he wants to put them both on the same line? very smart.

Anyone got numbers?

867-5309

No, wait...that's Jenny's.

It would also appear that Rupp is the odd man out.

867-5309

No, wait...that's Jenny's.

Oh gee...

http://www.survivetodrive.com/car-wreck.jpg

http://njmg.typepad.com/devilsblog/2007/09/line-shake-ups.html

Elias-Zubrus-Bergfors
Parise-Zajac-Gionta
Madden-Pelley-Asham
Pandolfo-Brylin-Clarkson/Rupp

Very interesting.

Hmmm. I saw Pelley centering Madden in the game report from the other day,
and thought it was a typo.

Madden going back out to LW, that's interesting. He's certainly less valuable there.
Actually looking at that lineup, line four looks more like line three than line three does.

Asham is not a third liner. He is too slow, doesnt pass/see the ice as well. I know sutter thinks the checking line is overated, but this move is rediculous. You do not break up Pandolfo and Madden.


Why not? Sink or swim.

Asham is not a third liner. He is too slow, doesnt pass/see the ice as well. I know sutter thinks the checking line is overated, but this move is rediculous. You do not break up Pandolfo and Madden.

Zubrus, Brylin and Zajac are not great on face offs. Madden and Pelley are the only ones who are good at it on the team, and he wants to put them both on the same line? very smart.

are u kidding? zajac was one of our better faceoff men last year.

If Bergfors stays on the 1st line we're in for a long season.

yeah, it might not be a good idea to put a rookie on our first line

Swapping bergfors and gionta may work, however i think it is going to realy hurt elias' production. He can do the most damage on the team, and he and gionta have good chemistry. And Zubrus is not exactly a premier center or first liner. In order to get the most production from Elias they need to give him someone else so he doesnt have to do all the passing and scoring by himself

I understand that it's not ideal to have a line of a 3rd, 2nd, and 1st year player.

And unless parise moves up to 1st line center you dont want to break him and Zajac up. If zubrus doesn't work on the first line(which would not be shocking, Parise and zubrus may end up swappping places

I can't see them putting Bergfors on the first line this season- he's good, but he's no Crosby. I don't understand why they would break up Madden and Pandolfo, either, even if Sutter doesn't like the idea of a checking line.

are u kidding? zajac was one of our better faceoff men last year.
That's not true at all.

46.9% in the regular season, 44.2% in the playoffs.

That's pretty poor.

Also, Gionta and Elias have zero chemistry together so I'm glad they're splitting up.

I like the lines with the exception of Pando on the 4th line, unless Sutter is planing to roll all 4 lines and give the 4th liners some additional minutes. Than I can understand having two good defensive players with Clarkson. I think that's a weakness that Clarkson will have to work on and that's his defensive play. That's why I wasn't sure he'd play with Madden or Pando and thought that Pelley would be a better fit on their right side. But now Sutter may play him in the middle, he is bigger and skates just as well as Madden.

Swapping bergfors and gionta may work, however i think it is going to realy hurt elias' production. He can do the most damage on the team, and he and gionta have good chemistry. And Zubrus is not exactly a premier center or first liner. In order to get the most production from Elias they need to give him someone else so he doesnt have to do all the passing and scoring by himself

I understand that it's not ideal to have a line of a 3rd, 2nd, and 1st year player.

And unless parise moves up to 1st line center you dont want to break him and Zajac up. If zubrus doesn't work on the first line(which would not be shocking, Parise and zubrus may end up swappping places

I can see that happening.

I like pelley, but madden is a better skater. He is one of the quickest guys on the team.

It's not too bad but why put our best faceoff guy on the wing.

before everyone gets too excited, this is normal for a new coach - to see how players interact with different line combos and chemistry...

I highly doubt this is anywhere near the final line combos... although I did remark during the offseason that I'd like to see Gionta with Parise and Zajac... that's pure offensive go[a]ld! My solution to the 1st line was Elias, Zubrus, Langenbrunner but that will have to wait :(

anything that gets 3 solid scoring lines is welcome by me... kick the can over and see what falls out... :yo:

Wow...sutter is certainly shaking things up. The reason Madden may be on the wing is because he is a better skater than Pelley. Sutter has the wingers chasing in deep, Madden's speed is suited for that.

Still though, I'm sure nothing is set in stone. If the lines are different on Saturday I will be sure and post them when I get back from the game.

Thoughts on what will happen when Langenbrunner comes back?

My guess Bergfors gets sent down unless he goes on a tear early.

Elias-Zubrus-Langenbrunner?
Parise-Zajac-Gionta
Madden-Pelley-Asham
Pandolfo-Brylin-Clarkson

Things could get messy if they send Pelley down...

Elias-Zubrus-Bergfors
Parise-Zajac-Gionta
Madden-Brylin-Langenbrunner
(between Asham, Pandolfo, Clarkson, Rupp, etc, your guess is as good as mine)

It will certainley be interesting. My guess is Pelley made an impression and could be here to stay. That seems a tad weird though.


Thoughts???

I thought Bergfors was sent back to Lowell?

I thought Bergfors was sent back to Lowell?

He's back.

With 5 rookies in the line-up, it must be a Devil record?

1. Greene
2. Corrente
3. Clarkson
4. Pelley
5. Bergfors

Thoughts on what will happen when Langenbrunner comes back?

My guess Bergfors gets sent down unless he goes on a tear early.

Elias-Zubrus-Langenbrunner?
Parise-Zajac-Gionta
Madden-Pelley-Asham
Pandolfo-Brylin-Clarkson

Things could get messy if they send Pelley down...

Elias-Zubrus-Bergfors
Parise-Zajac-Gionta
Madden-Brylin-Langenbrunner
(between Asham, Pandolfo, Clarkson, Rupp, etc, your guess is as good as mine)

It will certainley be interesting. My guess is Pelley made an impression and could be here to stay. That seems a tad weird though.


Thoughts???

I think its Pelley's spot to lose and Bergfors to win. Bergfors is here until Langs is healthy, unless he shows them otherwise. Pelley IMO has won a regular center job and Langs return won't affect him, unless he shows them he isn't ready.

Elias and Langs though had great chemistry during the streak at the end of 2006 with Brylin at center. If they can get that magic back with a nice big centre like Zubrus, this could work well.

I think its Pelley's spot to lose and Bergfors to win. Bergfors is here until Langs is healthy, unless he shows them otherwise. Pelley IMO has won a regular center job and Langs return won't affect him, unless he shows them he isn't ready.

Elias and Langs though had great chemistry during the streak at the end of 2006 with Brylin at center. If they can get that magic back with a nice big centre like Zubrus, this could work well.

I agree. Both Pelley and Clarkson I believe are 23/24, while Bergfors is 19/20. Plus, Lou was quoted as saying he wanted a spot open for Pelley to make the team, that's why no Rass or Dowd.

sutters showing tremendous faith in bergfors slottin him up there. i know this is in part to make the 2nd line balanced and just as offensive, but sutter didnt NEED to put him there, especially in place of gio. i hope he does well up there and becomes our next super swede(move over tommy albelin.) this is his big chance, im anxious to see what he can do with the big boys:handclap:.

With 5 rookies in the line-up, it must be a Devil record?

1. Greene
2. Corrente
3. Clarkson
4. Pelley
5. Bergfors

I think they had 6 or 7 at one point last season.

Thoughts on what will happen when Langenbrunner comes back?

My guess Bergfors gets sent down unless he goes on a tear early.


In that setup, Bergfors can easily go on the 3rd line. He would produce better than Asham. I'm loving our new coach. he's not afraid to try new things out. You never know what chemistry is there til you try it. Sure it goes against conventional wisdom, but sometimes thats what it takes to produce a good combination.

With 5 rookies in the line-up, it must be a Devil record?

1. Greene
2. Corrente
3. Clarkson
4. Pelley
5. Bergfors

Opening night 2001; Goc, Boumedienne, Bicek, Salomonsson, Dagenais and Clemmensen.

I remember we lost 6-1 at Washington. Maybe that wasn't too much of a shock.

Opening night 2001; Goc, Boumedienne, Bicek, Salomonsson, Dagenais and Clemmensen.

I remember we lost 6-1 at Washington. Maybe that wasn't too much of a shock.

Wow what a studly group that is.

heh except we got brodeur in the net. You can basically just put 5 warm bodies on the ice and theres still a chance we might win.

Seriously, these are lines being used in practice, it's no more likely that they will be used once the season starts than that they won't.

The nature of all lines is that they only last if they prove themselves fit for purpose, otherwise they are for the birds, and in the case of Sutter I think they will prove far more fluid and changeable than we have been used to in the recent past.

why would pelley play center over madden? madden im sure is a much better faceoff man

heh except we got brodeur in the net. You can basically just put 5 warm bodies on the ice and theres still a chance we might win.

I think Clemmer only played because Marty was pulled.

why would pelley play center over madden? madden im sure is a much better faceoff man

Madden is our best faceoff man.

why would pelley play center over madden? madden im sure is a much better faceoff man

playing the wing doesn't preclude Madden from taking the face-offs.

sutters showing tremendous faith in bergfors slottin him up there. i know this is in part to make the 2nd line balanced and just as offensive, but sutter didnt NEED to put him there, especially in place of gio. i hope he does well up there and becomes our next super swede(move over tommy albelin.) this is his big chance, im anxious to see what he can do with the big boys:handclap:.

I think they feel more comfortable having Bergfors playing with two vets instead of with Parise and Zajac. Or maybe they see some chemistry with Elias.

Guys, if you can, leave a comment or two on his blog ;)

Anyway, Sutter's made it clear that he's definitely not going with what's been done in the past. It's an exciting (and scary) time to be a Devils fan.

I'm a little worried about breaking up Maddolfo, but Sutter might be on to something there. And I'm already loving the PZG line :handclap:

With 5 rookies in the line-up, it must be a Devil record?

1. Greene
2. Corrente
3. Clarkson
4. Pelley
5. Bergfors

1. White
2. Gomez
3. Rafalski
4. Madden

We've had the fab 4!

Why not ...

Elias-Zubrus-Gionta
Parise-Zajac-Bergfors

?

i hope he does well up there and becomes our next super swede(move over tommy albelin.) .
don't forget Oduya!!!

Why not ...

Elias-Zubrus-Gionta
Parise-Zajac-Bergfors

?

Zajac line would then be too young. I'm assuming Madden and Pandolfo are still #1 PK.

I think they feel more comfortable having Bergfors playing with two vets instead of with Parise and Zajac. Or maybe they see some chemistry with Elias.

good point too, playin with an experienced zubrus and seasoned vet in elias will be a key point in his freshman year. he stands to learn plenty.

Wow...sutter is certainly shaking things up. The reason Madden may be on the wing is because he is a better skater than Pelley. Sutter has the wingers chasing in deep, Madden's speed is suited for that.

Still though, I'm sure nothing is set in stone. If the lines are different on Saturday I will be sure and post them when I get back from the game.

Can anyone offer a reasonable prediction on Gionta this year? He's healthy again isn't he?

don't forget Oduya!!!

haha oh yea d'oh. ok so hes our stable swede, niklas will be the super swede :P

While change is good sometimes, I don't like Gio to the 2nd line in place of an unproven rookie. I also despise the fact that Asham, although I'm one of his biggest advocates, is taking the spot Clarkson should have on the 3rd line. That is completely ass-backwards.

This is a bad move by Sutter IMO.

why would pelley play center over madden? madden im sure is a much better faceoff man

Just because Madden is playing the wing doesn't mean he can't take the faceoffs.

I'm actually happy Madden and Pandolfo got broken up because that pair was starting to get a little overrated the past two years. Also, since there is no checking line it doesn't matter that they're together. IMHO.

While change is good sometimes, I don't like Gio to the 2nd line in place of an unproven rookie. I also despise the fact that Asham, although I'm one of his biggest advocates, is taking the spot Clarkson should have on the 3rd line. That is completely ass-backwards.

This is a bad move by Sutter IMO.

How could you say it's a bad move when they haven't even tried it!?

While change is good sometimes, I don't like Gio to the 2nd line in place of an unproven rookie. I also despise the fact that Asham, although I'm one of his biggest advocates, is taking the spot Clarkson should have on the 3rd line. That is completely ass-backwards.

This is a bad move by Sutter IMO.

It's a great move. It spreads out your offense rather than centering it on 1 line, really.

Hum.. I guess the other list was just false, I'm sure a Flyer/Ranger/Devil hater made it XD


Oh well, I like the lines so far. You have 2selkes Nominated(One won) On the 3rd and 4rth line, Parise-Zajac-Gionta should be interressent. Same goes for Bergfors playing with Elias... I wonder if that's going to hurt his production? It all depends on chemistry though...

I don't know...I'll wait till tomorow night to make an assumption on the lines. Everything else Sutter has touched so far worked so why doubt him yet. I like Madden on the wing, two centers on the shutdown role. Madden may score more goals on the wing also where I always felt he was suited offensivly to use his speed.

Sure, Bergfors is unproven and maybe will question that he's on the first line. But look at it this way: Elias and Zubrus are two very good proven veterans who can teach Bergfors a lot.

And it's not like Bergfors is a Mike Rupp that suddenly finds himself on the top line. This kid has talent and he knows how to create offense. Playing with Elias and Zubrus will only help him. I don't think this hurts Elias' production at all, probably the opposite.

I like the Parise-Zajac-Gionta line. Gionta can play with anyone and always does a great job. This line will be awesome to watch, a lot of weapons on it.

Moving Madden to the wing isn't a bad idea, although I do think that he will still be taking the faceoffs. Madden is more experienced and knows how it works in the NHL. I think he understands the wing pretty good, he played there at the beginning of his NHL career. Madden will learn Pelley a lot playing on the same line, so that's a good thing.

Pando on the 4:th line isn't bad IMO. Pando isn't an offensive power anyway, he's just out there to shut guys down. This year's 4:th line will get A LOT more icetime than what it has had in recent years. Sutter likes to roll all lines.

This team looks a lot deeper right now. And when Langenbrunner comes back it will get even better!

GO DEVILS!!

is corrente physical at all? i dont really know a whole lot about him

and btw i think moving pando to the fourth line would be dumb. hes not a very good offensive player. i would rather have these lines for the bottom 6

pando-madden-pelley

and some combination of, brylin asham clarkson and rupp on the 4th

is corrente physical at all? i dont really know a whole lot about him

and btw i think moving pando to the fourth line would be dumb. hes not a very good offensive player. i would rather have these lines for the bottom 6

pando-madden-pelley

and some combination of, brylin asham clarkson and rupp on the 4th

Contradiction there? If Pando isn't very good offensively, than why is it a bad move having him on the 4:th line? Do you feel that the 4:th line should be or is an offensive line?

Contradiction there? If Pando isn't very good offensively, than why is it a bad move having him on the 4:th line? Do you feel that the 4:th line should be or is an offensive line?

no i think that sutter wants all 4 lines to be able to contribute offesivley and i dont think it is worth breaking up our checking line to get a few extra goals. i think having our checking line with madden pando and pelley all togther could keep more goals off the board than they could put them on the board split up trying to play more offensivley

no i think that sutter wants all 4 lines to be able to contribute offesivley and i dont think it is worth breaking up our checking line to get a few extra goals. i think having our checking line with madden pando and pelley all togther could keep more goals off the board than they could put them on the board split up trying to play more offensivley
Madden and Pandolfo may have worked well in a defensive role in a passive system but this is a different system. From what I seen in the Islander Devils game is that Pelley and Madden were all over the Islanders defense on the forecheck creating turnovers. Hell Pelley and Madden even looked excellent on the PK together. Pelley is much quicker and more physical then Pandolfo and may be a better fit with Madden.

PZG would get pushed around IMO. Small dudes.

that wont happen bergfors wont go on first line

I don't care. I am not comfortable with the fact that Bergfors is on our top line because of one good game. And I dont' like Pandolfo on the 4th line, and Asham on the third instead of Clarkson. Asham is a banger, and minor goals scorer, he may have a stroke trying to keep up with Pelley and Madden. But I'll bite my toungue if it works out.

PZG would get pushed around IMO. Small dudes.

thats what i was think but was afraid to bring it up. i think we should spread out the size. unfortunately thought with langs out and clarkson not looking like he is going to be in the top 6 we arent going to be that big on our top 2 lines

thats what i was think but was afraid to bring it up. i think we should spread out the size. unfortunately thought with langs out and clarkson not looking like he is going to be in the top 6 we arent going to be that big on our top 2 lines

Exactly, and that kind of defeats the purpose of our size goals this offseason.

I'm all for Bergfors on the 1st line, if it doesn't work, just move him. I don't see the big fuss. Either way, its really exciting how Sutter is changing absolutely everything, on the Devils of all teams.

thats what i was think but was afraid to bring it up. i think we should spread out the size. unfortunately thought with langs out and clarkson not looking like he is going to be in the top 6 we arent going to be that big on our top 2 lines

Travis isn't small

Exactly, and that kind of defeats the purpose of our size goals this offseason.

yea thats what i was thinking but i didnt want to post it because i didnt want to beleive it

Travis isn't small

What good is it...he never uses his size.

And God damnit I want to see Zubrus start using his size more as well!

Travis isn't small

no and either is elias or zubrus but, gio bergfors and parise are on teh small side and we had alot more size with either clarkson or langs in there

before everyone gets too excited, this is normal for a new coach - to see how players interact with different line combos and chemistry...

I highly doubt this is anywhere near the final line combos... although I did remark during the offseason that I'd like to see Gionta with Parise and Zajac... that's pure offensive go[a]ld! My solution to the 1st line was Elias, Zubrus, Langenbrunner but that will have to wait :(

anything that gets 3 solid scoring lines is welcome by me... kick the can over and see what falls out... :yo:

Correct. Sutter has come in and is doing his thing, so enough of "Pando and Madden seperated?" Boo-hoo. It hasn't gotten us out of the 2nd round in recent years. And before I get slammed with a bunch of excuses of why, the key is change might be good. We know Madden could use a change and maybe Pelley and Asham are not the answer to his scoring problems, but at least it's a change.
And all this "rookie on the first line! oh no!" Give the kid a chance. He's not Crosby(who is) but he's not a slouch, got some talent. Parise was a young, young kid too once. And again a new look with Elias and maybe it works out. The kid has a little of Sykora's style in him. For those of you who wanted to trade him for anything, here's the chance to finally see what he can do, and get yourself a real opinion on him. We all know that a Selke winner and a runner up will still be first in line when the team needs to shut some one down and/or kill penalties. And if they are not on the PK, fine. I long for the days when we could score short-handed goals, so if some of the more O guys get on the PK, so be it. I'm tired of bad +/- and being the one of the worst scoring teams in the league.

While change is good sometimes, I don't like Gio to the 2nd line in place of an unproven rookie. I also despise the fact that Asham, although I'm one of his biggest advocates, is taking the spot Clarkson should have on the 3rd line. That is completely ass-backwards.

This is a bad move by Sutter IMO.

Rookie Schmookie. It's all about chemistry. If you can get chemistry out of two lines by placing rookie on one line and moving a wing to another line, then you do it. All it means is that the lines are a bit more 1 and 1A than 1 and 2.

Correct. Sutter has come in and is doing his thing, so enough of "Pando and Madden seperated?" Boo-hoo. It hasn't gotten us out of the 2nd round in recent years. And before I get slammed with a bunch of excuses of why, the key is change might be good. We know Madden could use a change and maybe Pelley and Asham are not the answer to his scoring problems, but at least it's a change.
And all this "rookie on the first line! oh no!" Give the kid a chance. He's not Crosby(who is) but he's not a slouch, got some talent. Parise was a young, young kid too once. And again a new look with Elias and maybe it works out. The kid has a little of Sykora's style in him. For those of you who wanted to trade him for anything, here's the chance to finally see what he can do, and get yourself a real opinion on him. We all know that a Selke winner and a runner up will still be first in line when the team needs to shut some one down and/or kill penalties. And if they are not on the PK, fine. I long for the days when we could score short-handed goals, so if some of the more O guys get on the PK, so be it. I'm tired of bad +/- and being the one of the worst scoring teams in the league.

Agreed. Its not like Sutter has absolutely no idea what he is doing, otherwise he would not be our coach. There is a good reason for these lines and I can't wait to see what they do. If they don't work, then the necessary adjustments will be made, case closed. If things do not change, then the results will not change, so this makes sense.

All I can say is, deep man .......deeeep!

im just afraid this season will turn into a giant experiment and a test for teh rookies

I don't care. I am not comfortable with the fact that Bergfors is on our top line because of one good game. And I dont' like Pandolfo on the 4th line, and Asham on the third instead of Clarkson. Asham is a banger, and minor goals scorer, he may have a stroke trying to keep up with Pelley and Madden. But I'll bite my toungue if it works out.
You obviously didn't watch the Islanders game. He was even better in that game just didn't register a point.

What good is it...he never uses his size.
Its not his game...he does everything else he is suppost to though and he uses his size effectivly...just not in a physical standpoint.

Its not his game...he does everything else he is suppost to though and he uses his size effectivly...just not in a physical standpoint.

i think he is going to learn to use it more this year

i think he is going to learn to use it more this year
I hope he does because thats what Sutter is preaching...people have to remember Zajac is only a sophmore.

What good is it...he never uses his size.

Enter Sutter.

Correct. Sutter has come in and is doing his thing, so enough of "Pando and Madden seperated?" Boo-hoo. It hasn't gotten us out of the 2nd round in recent years. And before I get slammed with a bunch of excuses of why, the key is change might be good. We know Madden could use a change and maybe Pelley and Asham are not the answer to his scoring problems, but at least it's a change.
And all this "rookie on the first line! oh no!" Give the kid a chance. He's not Crosby(who is) but he's not a slouch, got some talent. Parise was a young, young kid too once. And again a new look with Elias and maybe it works out. The kid has a little of Sykora's style in him. For those of you who wanted to trade him for anything, here's the chance to finally see what he can do, and get yourself a real opinion on him. We all know that a Selke winner and a runner up will still be first in line when the team needs to shut some one down and/or kill penalties. And if they are not on the PK, fine. I long for the days when we could score short-handed goals, so if some of the more O guys get on the PK, so be it. I'm tired of bad +/- and being the one of the worst scoring teams in the league.


i really liked what you said so i have to bring out the old saying: Oh snap. that was nicely said...sutter is doing this for a reason, dont cramp his style, he may be onto something...and these lines arent set in stone.

You obviously didn't watch the Islanders game. He was even better in that game just didn't register a point.

Yeah bergfors was really good in that game. Dubie just woke up when he started shooting. I think the smaller guys are actually ignored more and may actually be better for scoring in the new NHL. At least during the regular season.

You obviously didn't watch the Islanders game. He was even better in that game just didn't register a point.

Like I said, I hope I'm wrong, and no I couldn't see that game where I live. I wonder why he had such a crappy ass year in Lowell last year, compared to what was expected of him, and now he is suddenly alive.

im just afraid this season will turn into a giant experiment and a test for teh rookies

+1, but I'm hoping not. I don't have an DOUBTS necessarily, but I feel uncomfortable with the moves until they are proven to work. I like Sutter's intensity and dedication just as much as the next guy, and he has the track record of a winner, but everyone around here will have their hat in their hand if this all backfires.

Hence the rolling of four lines. Madden-Pelley-Asham will still probably be our "matchup" line at different times, but if the lines stay this way, I feel very comfortable rolling all four lines.

Then again, it ain't even October yet.

That's what I like the best about those potential line combinations as well. Spreads the talent throughout all 4 lines, each line having a different dimension. Getting a little creative too with Madden playing on the wing. Pelley must have really excelled at camp to bump Madden from his natural center ice position....

+1, but I'm hoping not. I don't have an DOUBTS necessarily, but I feel uncomfortable with the moves until they are proven to work. I like Sutter's intensity and dedication just as much as the next guy, and he has the track record of a winner, but everyone around here will have their hat in their hand if this all backfires.

Why? If they stuck with the status quo, it wasn't like they were going anywhere.

It's not as if he destroyed a cup winning formula from last season.

They're a so-so team, especially on D, especially without White. Might as well
try to use their assets, speed and forwards and try to apply pressure instead of
sitting back and making their weakness, the D, pick up all the slack.

If they fail doing this, they likely would have failed doing anything other than last year's "rally 'round Marty and do absolutely nothing and steal points all year long"
strategy. Which means they'd just get beat down in the playoffs again.

I'd rather miss the playoffs fighting and know I have a punchers chance if I'm in,
than go through last season again.

wouldnt it be great to see bergfors have a 60+ point season, and completely revive patty's game. im really pulling for bergfors, i dont think he will put up that many points im just saying that wierder things have happened and im trying to be on the bright side in the midst of all these injuries

Agreed. Its not like Sutter has absolutely no idea what he is doing, otherwise he would not be our coach. There is a good reason for these lines and I can't wait to see what they do. If they don't work, then the necessary adjustments will be made, case closed. If things do not change, then the results will not change, so this makes sense.

i really liked what you said so i have to bring out the old saying: Oh snap. that was nicely said...sutter is doing this for a reason, dont cramp his style, he may be onto something...and these lines arent set in stone.

Thanks for the kudos.

I think we've gotten used to the fact that in recent seasons rookies rarely make it on the team out of camp (TZ and Johnny O last year was a lot). This might be the first time since '00 that we might have 3-4 rooks playing regular/semi-regularly, fine by me. I wouldn't doubt because the Devs have been such a veteran laden team that a couple of our picks didn't develop cause the mental aspect of "am I ever gonna get a chance" can wear on you. Couple of my friends were baseball picks and they've told me it can mess with you. So again, if you were in love with Sutter when he got hired 'cause "wow, he can develop our kids:handclap:", then don't retract now and get jittery about it. We still have many vets with rings who know the right end of a stick. This isn't an experiment or transition team, but we do need a bit of re-tooling and infusion of youth and spark. Would you rather have: Pelley or Dowd, Bergfors or Rasmussen, Clarkson or Marshall(granted Clarkson was a given, barring truly flopping in PS)? Give me a young guy with potential to learn and develop from mistakes than any more washed up scrap heap guys.

My apologies for venting. I'm trying to teach the Japanese how to dump and chase and not make long passes through center that leads to odd man rushes. <Sigh>Season please start soon:help:

Why? If they stuck with the status quo, it wasn't like they were going anywhere.

It's not as if he destroyed a cup winning formula from last season.

They're a so-so team, especially on D, especially without White. Might as well
try to use their assets, speed and forwards and try to apply pressure instead of
sitting back and making their weakness, the D, pick up all the slack.

If they fail doing this, they likely would have failed doing anything other than last year's "rally 'round Marty and do absolutely nothing and steal points all year long"
strategy. Which means they'd just get beat down in the playoffs again.

I'd rather miss the playoffs fighting and know I have a punchers chance if I'm in,
than go through last season again.

You're drinking the same ale I am.;)

Thoughts on what will happen when Langenbrunner comes back?

My guess Bergfors gets sent down unless he goes on a tear early.

Elias-Zubrus-Langenbrunner?
Parise-Zajac-Gionta
Madden-Pelley-Asham
Pandolfo-Brylin-Clarkson

Things could get messy if they send Pelley down...

Elias-Zubrus-Bergfors
Parise-Zajac-Gionta
Madden-Brylin-Langenbrunner
(between Asham, Pandolfo, Clarkson, Rupp, etc, your guess is as good as mine)

It will certainley be interesting. My guess is Pelley made an impression and could be here to stay. That seems a tad weird though.


Thoughts???


Bergfors has been fantastic in the year's camp. what will sutter do? Kick him to Lowell? No of course not. I want to see Bergfors with the Big boys this season, definitive.

wouldnt it be great to see bergfors have a 60+ point season, and completely revive patty's game. im really pulling for bergfors, i dont think he will put up that many points im just saying that wierder things have happened and im trying to be on the bright side in the midst of all these injuries

Bergfors with Elias. You never now ;-)

It depends on how well the lines/players do. If the top two lines are doing fine by THanksgiving when Langer gets back...he may very put Jamie on the checking line. It's a good problem to have figureing out where to put some of these guys. I just hope Bergfors does well, we need an offensive young guy.

Elias-Zuby-Bergie
Gionta-Zajac-Parise
Langer-Pelley-Madden
Pandolfo-Brylin-Clarkson

http://njmg.typepad.com/devilsblog/2007/09/line-shake-ups.html

Elias-Zubrus-Bergfors
Parise-Zajac-Gionta
Madden-Pelley-Asham
Pandolfo-Brylin-Clarkson/Rupp

Very interesting.

To sum it up, I love Sutter.

Elias-Zubrus-Bergfors
Bergfors showed great potential in the preseason games. His goal against the Flyers made me really believe in his potential as an Alfredsson-level star. He will be the sniper on this line, while Elias goes back to his preferred job as a playmaker, and Zubrus is the big body.
Predictions:
Elias: 30g, 45a, 75p
Zubrus: 25g, 30a, 55p
Bergfors: 20g, 25a, 45p

Parise-Zajac-Gionta
As somebody already said, Zajac's assists go up tremendously. Who cares if the size of this line is sub-average. Parise plays like he's 6'3'' and Gionta plays much tougher than his 5'7'' stature. Just ask Zdeno Chara. Under Sutter, it's all about heart. This line has it.
Predictions:
Parise: 35g, 35a, 70p
Zajac: 20g, 40a, 60p
Gionta: 40g, 30a, 70p

Madden-Pelley-Asham
This line will be able to showcase Madden's speed that we haven't seen since 2000-01. I like the idea of splitting up Madden and Pandolfo, since if they're not shutting down the opposing line's team, they are in fact totally useless together. Pelley is going to be the third line center for this team for the foreseeable future.
Predictions:
Madden: 15g, 15a, 30p
Pelley: 5g, 10a, 15 p
Asham: 10g, 15a, 25p

Pandolfo-Brylin-Clarkson
This would be a third line on most teams, and I love the fact Sutter is spreading out the wealth to give us unbelievable depth. Pandolfo can still shut down other people, while Clarkson can show what he's made of banging people and banging pucks in.
Predictions:
Pandolfo: 10g, 10a, 20p
Brylin: 10g,10a, 20p
Clarkson: 12g, 12a, 24p

Our team's still gonna surprise a lot of people this year.

It depends on how well the lines/players do. If the top two lines are doing fine by THanksgiving when Langer gets back...he may very put Jamie on the checking line. It's a good problem to have figureing out where to put some of these guys. I just hope Bergfors does well, we need an offensive young guy.

Elias-Zuby-Bergie
Gionta-Zajac-Parise
Langer-Pelley-Madden
Pandolfo-Brylin-Clarkson

if you would go with those lines i would switch gio and parsie and langer madden

Hopefully fans are patient with the invariable growing pains associated with Devils rookies making the necessary adjustments this year.

Hopefully fans are patient with the invariable growing pains associated with Devils rookies making the necessary adjustments this year.

lolz, good luck with that. We have a lot of fickle fans here

lolz, good luck with that. We have a lot of fickle fans here

Trade everyone.

Trade everyone.

Oh it'll happen.

I think what Sutter wants is a good balance of defensive responsibility and hitters on the 3rd and 4th lines. Really, if you look and both those lines, they're pretty much on par with each other.

Asham-Pelley-Madden
Pando-Brylin-Clarkson

And he always can change it up if it doesn't workout.

I think what Sutter wants is a good balance of defensive responsibility and hitters on the 3rd and 4th lines. Really, if you look and both those lines, they're pretty much on par with each other.

Asham-Pelley-Madden
Pando-Brylin-Clarkson

And he always can change it up if it doesn't workout.

ooo thats pretty nice

I think what Sutter wants is a good balance of defensive responsibility and hitters on the 3rd and 4th lines. Really, if you look and both those lines, they're pretty much on par with each other.

Asham-Pelley-Madden
Pando-Brylin-Clarkson

And he always can change it up if it doesn't workout.

i like it if thats the direction sutter is taking this but i would just switch asham with madden.

i like it if thats the direction sutter is taking this but i would just switch asham with madden.

I'd try Madden on the offwing, maybe he can hit the net!

I'd try Madden on the offwing, maybe he can hit the net!

yea thats a good point, whats the worst that can happen? he can miss the net like always does anyway so no harm

You know, looking at Madden's stats, his accuracy isn't that much worse than some of his other years. Its just that he took less shots at the net this past season than usual. I think with Sutter's system he'll definately see an improvement in his numbers.

Why? If they stuck with the status quo, it wasn't like they were going anywhere.

It's not as if he destroyed a cup winning formula from last season.

They're a so-so team, especially on D, especially without White. Might as well
try to use their assets, speed and forwards and try to apply pressure instead of
sitting back and making their weakness, the D, pick up all the slack.

If they fail doing this, they likely would have failed doing anything other than last year's "rally 'round Marty and do absolutely nothing and steal points all year long"
strategy. Which means they'd just get beat down in the playoffs again.

I'd rather miss the playoffs fighting and know I have a punchers chance if I'm in,
than go through last season again.

I know I haven't agreed with a lot you have said in the past, but you hit the bullseye with this post!

Madden looked pretty good last night on wing, he was able to get a strong forecheck going. Pelley seems to be doing fine at center as well. I like the lines we have now. For the first time in a long time, we have 4 lines that are all capable of scoring and are at least responsible in their own end.

I really like Madden at wing. He looks more like his 1999-2001 self and less like his 2002-2005 self.