What will the lines be when Langenbrunner returns?

The ledger says that Langenbrunner has started practicing with the team. Tom Gulitti says that he is almost fully healed and could be playing in as little as 2-3 weeks. Langenbrunner says that it's a matter of conditioning. So where does he fit in our forward lines?

Putting him with Elias and Zajac seems the most likely option, then dropping Zubrus down to LW with Parise and Gionta.

I don't know but I think we need another center. Parise was flourishing and becoming a sniper on the wing. I don't think pushing him back to center is the way to go. Plus he really looked like he had trouble on the faceoffs last game.

Nice thread, I personally want the PZL back, but that makes things kind of complicated.

Thank freaking god.

I might consider putting him with Elias, as the two of them had pretty good chemistry.

Nice thread, I personally want the PZL back, but that makes things kind of complicated.

This line was so good I think Sutter would be a numskull to at least not give them a chance.

I think maybe we should go back to the lines we had in the beginning of the season. For a stretch those lines were producing... Something like :

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

It won't matter. The lines will be changed by the second period.

This line was so good I think Sutter would be a numskull to at least not give them a chance.

Well, under Sutter you know we will see EVERY possible line combo, the question is will he keep them together?

I think maybe we should go back to the lines we had in the beginning of the season. For a stretch those lines were producing... Something like :

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

For all intesive purposes, can we put the PZL line as the top line?

For all intesive purposes, can we put the PZL line as the top line?


Don't think line order matters with Sutter. He just play whoever line scores the most more.

What will the lines be when Langenbrunner returns?

Better then they are now :)

I think maybe we should go back to the lines we had in the beginning of the season. For a stretch those lines were producing... Something like :

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

Wouldn't mind that.....
Already know the Chemistry is there with the bold guys
And Asham seems to play well with everyone. He was our Best Pickup this offseason Hands Down!!! I liked him on the island, and am liking him more and more every time I watch him play!
Sarge can play with anyone, and Pelley has shown some good Hustle.

I think maybe we should go back to the lines we had in the beginning of the season. For a stretch those lines were producing... Something like :

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

i like the bottom 6 but not the top this is my top 6

elias-zajc-langs
zubrus-parise-gio

Does it matter?! We still have no defense....

For balance...

Elias - Madden - Clarkson
Brylin - Zajac - Langs
Pando - Zubrus - Gionta
Parise - Pelley - Asham

Does it matter?! We still have no defense....

When we get 18 shots in a period and don't score, yes.

For balance...

Elias - Madden - Clarkson
Clarkson - Zajac - Langs
Pando - Zubrus - Gionta
Parise - Pelley - Asham

Dude...what are you smoking?

Parise on the 4:th line??! :help:

I thought putting "For balance" at the top would indicate that there is no 4th line.

More traditional...

Elias - Zubrus - Gionta
Parise - Zajac - Langs
Pando - Madden - Asham
Brylin - Pelley - Clarkson

For all intesive purposes, can we put the PZL line as the top line?

Who are you, Doug Heffernan? The phrase is "for all intents and purposes."

Langenbrunner on the right wing with Zajac and Elias will be our top line and it will be a killer...hopefully.

I think maybe we should go back to the lines we had in the beginning of the season. For a stretch those lines were producing... Something like :

Elias - Zubrus - Gionta
Parise-Zajac-Langenbrunner
Pandolfo-Madden-Asham
Brylin-Pelley-Clarkson
Not a bad idea. The Elias-Zubrus-Gionta line did look really good at the beginning of the year, though Zubrus has looked better at wing. I also wouldn't mind seeing Elias-Zajac-Langs and Zubrus-Parise-Gio as the top two.

What this team really could use is another top 2 line center. Zubrus has only looked mediocre there, and while I'm willing to give Parise more time to adjust to it I think he's better off playing the wing.

stable?

that may really be all this team needs.

just keep the lines together for a few games, win or lose.

let the lines gel and let them see that their own coach has some confidence in HIS OWN CHOICES!!!!

Elias has been playing great with Zajac. With a situation as fragile as the one we have with Elias, I would be REALLY hesitant to break them up. Putting Langenbrunner on the same line with those two can only be good.

The problem with Elias-Zajac line is that nobody else seems to gel with them that well. Asham was ok on that line but I think the line needed a better RWer. Gionta sort of worked there but he's having a rough start.

Parise's talents are wasted with Zubrus. I dunno how this guy managed with Ovechkin but he just seems clumsy around the net. I think Parise is better with someone else who can handle good passes etc.

Bergfors-Parise-Langenbrunner would work very well, but Bergfors needs a little more experience I think. It would be a great future line.

I think for now, Parise-Pelley-Langenbrunner would work very well. Pelley is a great center and looks very poised and makes good decisions.

Asham or Clarkson seem to work well with Madden, so either on 3rd or 4th.

Zubrus is so big why not make him center the grinder line...

So the lines :

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

If Elias and Gionta continue to not produce, then Switch Parise-Zajac-Langenbrunner as the 1st line and stick Pelley with Elias and Gionta.

Then at least we'll have 1 really good line.

...quite simply - the lines will be BETTER. :handclap:

Sounds like Parise is going back to Zajac's wing...

http://njmg.typepad.com/devilsblog/

i have been saying that with patty and langs chemistry id love to see what madden could do in the middle of those two. i think they could be dangerous. then the lines would maybe look something like this:

parise-zajac-gionta
elias-madden-langenbrunner
zubrus-brylin-asham
pandolfo-pelley-clarkson

i have been saying that with patty and langs chemistry id love to see what madden could do in the middle of those two. i think they could be dangerous. then the lines would maybe look something like this:

parise-zajac-gionta
elias-madden-langenbrunner
zubrus-brylin-asham
rupp-pelley-clarkson


No SuperJay?

No SuperJay?

my bad........fixed

Where does he fit in upon return?

Does he even have a place on the roster anymore? Wasn't be pegged for the first line?

I believe Lou thinks Bergfors is a sissy and sent him back to Lowell for good.

I really would like to see the PZL line back together. That line was great last year and we really need scoring.

Parise-Zajac-Langenbrunner
Elias-Zubrus-Gio
Pandolfo-Madden-Clarkson
Rupp-Pelley-Asham

I really would like to see the PZL line back together. That line was great last year and we really need scoring.

Parise-Zajac-Langenbrunner
Elias-Zubrus-Gio
Pandolfo-Madden-Clarkson
Rupp-Pelley-Asham

I agree, but not with the second line. Somebody posted on here before about Madden and Elias pairing up and I totally agree. I don't want to see 3 struggling players on the same line together. I'd like to see something like this

Parise-Zajac-Langs
Elias-Madden-Gio
Pandolfo-Brylin-Zubrus
Asham-Pelley-Clarkson

You forgot about Brylin

And until he comes back it SHOULD be this

Parise-Zajac-Clarkson
Elias-Madden-Gio
Pandolfo-Brylin-Zubrus
Rupp-Pelley-Asham

Where does Viuhkola fit in in these ideas? :biglaugh:

I thought I'd bump this topic up since I think Sutter may have found some answers with a few of the combinations tonight......

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

The only thing this line-up is missing, in my opinion, is one good center. Still, I like the depth.

I thought I'd bump this topic up since I think Sutter may have found some answers with a few of the combinations tonight......

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

The only thing this line-up is missing, in my opinion, is one good center. Still, I like the depth.
Our forward lines are incredibly solid - though keeping Elias and Asham together might not be a bad idea, we'll see what happens when the time comes. I think we need another one or two defensemen.

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

Our forward lines are incredibly solid - though keeping Elias and Asham together might not be a bad idea, we'll see what happens when the time comes. I think we need another one or two defensemen.

I think Brookbank could be a wildcard for this team. If he can continue his stellar play and White returns, then our defense doesn't look too darn bad.

White-Martin
Oduya-Greene
Vishnevski-Brookbank

Also, props to Andy Greene. He looked incredibly solid and composed out there tonight...

Where does Viuhkola fit in in these ideas? :biglaugh:

:biglaugh::biglaugh:

He was such a "lock" to make the roster out of training camp.

Who cares what the lines are when Langs returns...at least he'll be back.

Where does Viuhkola fit in in these ideas? :biglaugh:

They are just hiding him.

Lines in December....

Elias-Viuhkola-Langenbrunner
Parise-Viuhkola-Gionta
Pandolfo-Madden-Viuhkola
Brylin-Viuhkola-Viuhkola

I think Brookbank could be a wildcard for this team. If he can continue his stellar play and White returns, then our defense doesn't look too darn bad.

White-Martin
Oduya-Greene
Vishnevski-Brookbank

Also, props to Andy Greene. He looked incredibly solid and composed out there tonight...

I was shocked Brookbank was willing to drop the gloves last night. Seeing how he was just picked up off waivers. He looks ready to buy into the team and am grateful for his chance in the NHL.

Its a amazing how good Martin and Greene play when they don't have to cover for their weaker partners.

I thought I'd bump this topic up since I think Sutter may have found some answers with a few of the combinations tonight......

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

The only thing this line-up is missing, in my opinion, is one good center. Still, I like the depth.

I think these will be the lines. Elias Brylin and Langs was the second line when we had The streak at the end of the 05-06 season. I would like a more offensive center than Brylin on that second line but he is a solid enough player to make do.

I thought madden centered that line...

I thought madden centered that line...

no Madden and Pando were on the checking line still, Brylin centered Langs and elias during the streak. And Parise moved up to left wing with Gio and Gomez.

my bad........fixed

Thank goodness you put Pando back in that line-up!! ;)

They are just hiding him.

Lines in December....

Elias-Viuhkola-Langenbrunner
Parise-Viuhkola-Gionta
Pandolfo-Madden-Viuhkola
Brylin-Viuhkola-Viuhkola

And the D:
Oduya-Viuhkola
Martin-Greene
Vish-Viuhkola

Brodeur
Viuhkola

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

So whens he back, 2-3 weeks?

So whens he back, 2-3 weeks?

He'll start practicing with the team this week and then it will probably take about 2 weeks for him to get into decent gameshape. So yeah...2-3 weeks is just about right.

I'd just like to see Jamie on a line with Elias. As mentioned, Patty works best with Jamie. I'm not so pumped about seeing Brylin center those two, though...

Ok so the sooner Langs comes back the better right...

But we all know our depth at center is pretty darn poor!

So is there a possiblity the devs make a trade for a first line center??

Or is the defense a more critical issue, I for one am still not convinced about parise at center....

Defense is much more important, Brylin can play 2nd line center and has been the last few games. I don't know of any 1st line centers that would be remotely available, either.

were short on natural centers (that actually play center)

Matvichuk for Marleau...although I think we get stiffed a bit, maybe Matvichuk for Marleau and a 1st would be more like it...

We are way to abundant at RW:

Gionta
Langenbrunner
Clarkson
Asham
Zubrus

We need to trade one of those guys and obviously the only logical choice is Gionta. We should try to package him and Matvichuk to either acquire a defenseman, center, or both

We are way to abundant at RW:

Gionta
Langenbrunner
Clarkson
Asham
Zubrus

We need to trade one of those guys and obviously the only logical choice is Gionta. We should try to package him and Matvichuk to either acquire a defenseman, center, or both

hes the only real goal scorer out of all of those though.

hes the only real goal scorer out of all of those though.

Really? Then where the heck has he been all season?

hes the only real goal scorer out of all of those though.

Langenbrunner's not a goal scorer?

Langenbrunner's not a goal scorer?

im pretty sure last year was the most goals hes had in a season

Really? Then where the heck has he been all season?

hopefully he comes around becuase we know what he can do

im pretty sure last year was the most goals hes had in a season

Okay, and I'm pretty sure the year before was the most goals Gionta has had in a season, so we have 2 potential goal scorers.

hopefully he comes around becuase we know what he can do

Yeah, I'm hoping so as well! My Gionta Starter jersey isn't ready to be hung up in the closet just yet! I just wish he would step it up and step it up soon!

hopefully he comes around becuase we know what he can do

I'm starting to think that his production was largely because of the abilities of Scott Gomez

Okay, and I'm pretty sure the year before was the most goals Gionta has had in a season, so we have 2 potential goal scorers.

well we are comparing 48 (gio) to 23 (langs) dont get me wrong, i love jamie and i know he can score more than 23 plus he brings some much more to the table than just goals, but im just saying we would be LEANING on parise for goals if we traded gio

well we are comparing 48 (gio) to 23 (langs) dont get me wrong, i love jamie and i know he can score more than 23 plus he brings some much more to the table than just goals, but im just saying we would be LEANING on parise for goals if we traded gio

Hey...maybe if our other players actually stepped up and PLAYED we wouldn't have to just rely on Parise!

*hint hint* Paging Mr. Patrik Elias!!

I'm starting to think that his production was largely because of the abilities of Scott Gomez

zajac can be that kind of player and they are playing together so i think he is just in an early season slump

zajac can be that kind of player and they are playing together so i think he is just in an early season slump

Zajac has 3 goals and he's stepped up big time! So, I wouldn't say he's in a slump. Gio however seriously needs to step it up!

Zajac has 3 goals and he's stepped up big time! So, I wouldn't say he's in a slump. Gio however seriously needs to step it up!

no i meant gionta

no i meant gionta

Yeah, I realized that after I posted and I'm too lazy to edit it!!

But seriously, Gio used to be that go hard drive the net guy and I haven't really seen that since his injury last year.

But Gionta's also our biggest trade asset because of his potential. But either we need to acquire a playmaking center (unlikely) so he can perform better or we need to trade him to strengthen other weaknesses.

But Gionta's also our biggest trade asset because of his potential. But either we need to acquire a playmaking center (unlikely) so he can perform better or we need to trade him to strengthen other weaknesses.

our weekness right now is scoring goals

I'm starting to think that his production was largely because of the abilities of Scott Gomez

I think so also. I'd be surprised if Gionta ever scored more than 25 or so a season from here on in - and probably less than that this year. So in replacing him you need to look for someone who can put 25-30 goals on the board to get a good return, not 40-50.

I think so also. I'd be surprised if Gionta ever scored more than 25 or so a season from here on in - and probably less than that this year. So in replacing him you need to look for someone who can put 25-30 goals on the board to get a good return, not 40-50.

Totally agree. But some people on this board think that he can still put up those numbers of two years ago. We need to look to shop him before his value totally plummets. Don't get me wrong, I'm a Gionta guy, but lets face facts: he's not a playmaker. He needs a playmaking center to produce, and there not one there yet (Zajac is on his way to being one, but he's a different type of player than Gomez was)

I'm starting to think that his production was largely because of the abilities of Scott Gomez

So why are the Rags dead last in the NHL in scoring?

Our weakness is scoring goals mostly because Patrik Elias is not scoring. Tonight vs. the penguins, Elias needs to get at least two goals and a few assists. He needs to get atleast 2 points every game from now on.

Elias should be putting up over 100 points for the year for what he is getting paid.

What does Gionta missing the net everytime he shoots have to do with Gomez?

So why are the Rags dead last in the NHL in scoring?

A logical fallacy. Correlation does not imply causation, similar to the argument that Glabal Warming is due to the lack of pirates, since when the pirates were around in numbers, there was no Global Warming. Therefore, Gomez being on the Rangers isn't the cause of them being dead last in the NHL in scoring.

What does Gionta missing the net everytime he shoots have to do with Gomez?

Because Gomez, regardless of his lack of production on the Rangers, is one of the best passers in the league. It's not Gomez's fault that the Rangers haven't been able to find someone who can take advantage of his talents the way Gionta could. It doesn't mean Gomez sucks, either.

Granted, Gionta has some of the fastest hands around the crease that I've ever seen. But his talents shine when the puck is already down low and he can either crash the crease for rebounds or get himself open for a tip-in on the great pass. Regardless of Gomez's goal-scoring abilities or current situation, his passes directly led to many rebounds, crease-crashing opportunities, and great tip-in opportunities for Gionta. Without Gomez, Gionta hasn't had those chances. The closest he's come is when playing with Parise, since Parise's play generates chances - but more often then not, Parise is the one down low looking for rebounds or crease-crashing, not Gionta.

So why are the Rags dead last in the NHL in scoring?

Because he hasn't had good chemistry with Jagr. He needs to be paired with a sniper, like Gionta.

Don't bring up the Rangers' struggles as to why Gionta's not producing.

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

I would try Elias at center.

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

http://hfboards.com/showthread.php?t=436173

Itdoesntmatter better get his ****ing act straight.

Langenbrunner-Langenbrunner-Langenbrunner
Langenbrunner-Langenbrunner-Langenbrunner
Langenbrunner-Langenbrunner-Langenbrunner
Langenbrunner-Langenbrunner-Langenbrunner

That's how I would have it....it's probably the best lineup we can come up with right now.

Elias - Zubrus - Gionta :help:
Parise - Zajac - Langenbrunner :yo:
Pandolfo - Madden - Asham :handclap:
Rupp - Brylin - Clarkson

Parise-Zajac-Langenbrunner
Elias-Madden-Zurbus
Pandolfo-Brylin-Gionta
Clarkson-Pelley-Asham
Maybe switch Asham and Clarkson, depending on who playes better on the off wing?

Parise-Zajac-Langs
Zubrus-Elias-Asham
Pando-Madden-Gio
Brylin-Pelley-Clarkson

Just tried something different.. And i know we've tried Elias at C before but that was when Elias was hungry for the net... He seems to be trying to create too much and look to pass.. How can it hurt trying him at C?

Elias - Zubrus - Gionta :help:
Parise - Zajac - Langenbrunner :yo:
Pandolfo - Madden - Asham :handclap:
Rupp - Brylin - Clarkson

thats what i would have if i didnt see how zubrus and elias played together

realistically this is what i think it should be

elias-zajac-langs
parise-zubrus-gio
pando-maddog-clarkson/asham
rupp-brylin-clarkson/asham

Elias-Zajac-Langenbrunner

I think this would be worth trying. Both Patty and Langs plus Zajac and Langs have chemistry together. One thing is that will Patty and Zajac find their groove together? They did seem to get some nice plays when they were palying together at one point earlier.

Asham-Parise-Gionta

This one was the hardest part to figure out. Asham works like a horse and Gio is good in front of the net. One thing that got me stumped was that would this one leave Parise too much alone? It is tempting to unite PZL, but I think there´s not enough talent to put all PZL´s in one basket. If and When Gio shows up, it´s much better.

Pandolfo-Madden-Zubrus

Based on their performance against Tampa..Hopefully it´s not just one game, but they continue to show up in both ends of the rink.

Rupp-Brylin-Clarkson

Brylin would be a good fit for our 4th line, balancing it and being everything we´ve used to getting from him. Rupp and Clarkson will handle dirty deeds with or without the puck.

Pelley - The odd man out.

Just my few lines...

My lines, which some people will hate, but here it goes...

Top 6

Elias - Madden - Langs (im couting on a ressurection of this trios past form, please patty!!!)

Parise - Zajac - Asham (travis and zach have great chem, and i dont think neither will have as good a year as last if they are split up, chip in asham who i hope can fill langs boots....i really really hope!!)

Bottom 6, this is where it all goes to pot...

Pando - Pelley - Zubrus (pando is pando, pelley is the next madden??? and zubrus is zubrus)

Rupp - Brylin - Clarkson (i really like the look of this line, great 4th line imo)

Gionta is traded, unfortunately, this guy is a shadow without a playmaker, something we dont have, and go after a legit 1b - 2 defenceman....

:shakehead

I like Matteo's lines to start when Langs comes back. Proven chemistry with ZZ Pops line. Asham has the perfect ability with crash and bang yet also the offensive abilities to make Madden's line a constant scoring threat.

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

Big question here is will Elias-Zubrus-Gionta ever get going? I hope so...

I just liked the idea of Asham up on Elias' line somehow... I thought he brought some spark and after seeing those toe drags Monday, I think he's got the moves to compliment Elias.

:shakehead

I like Matteo's lines to start when Langs comes back. Proven chemistry with ZZ Pops line. Asham has the perfect ability with crash and bang yet also the offensive abilities to make Madden's line a constant scoring threat.

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

Big question here is will Elias-Zubrus-Gionta ever get going? I hope so...

I just liked the idea of Asham up on Elias' line somehow... I thought he brought some spark and after seeing those toe drags Monday, I think he's got the moves to compliment Elias.

Yeah these lines look good, you cant argue with the PZL line either, its just that, i dont think zubrus or gionta are gonna get going on the line, and i really want Elias to stay....

Im sure Sutter will get some good lines going eventually, but as long as Parise and Zajac stay together, i dont mind seeing any kind of combinations being used....

Richer, how does this line get you going??

Elias - Madden - Asham

How the bottom 6 looks after this shakeup, i dont know....

Richer, how does this line get you going??

Elias - Madden - Asham

How the bottom 6 looks after this shakeup, i dont know....

As much as I think Madden would be a stud in that role (top center) I think your are sacrificing the structure of the rest of the lines to do it. Call it the Pittsburgh effect, but I don't believe in putting all the talent in 2 lines and hoping the other 2 lines can 'break even' and just eat up the clock until the top lines are ready to roll again.

I think that line would work fine on it's own - but you would be scrambling the lines all the way down the roster (a dead last resort IMO if you plan on officially going into demolition mode).

If you did that I'd finish it like this:

Elias - Madden - Asham
Parise - Zajac - Gionta
Zubrus - Brylin - Langenbrunner
Pando - Rupp - Clarkson

This could actually work, but you're asking for a whole lot of chemistry to happen on a steep learning curve as the guys get used to each other (Madden/Elias, Zubrus/Langenbrunner, Pando/Clarkson).

Honestly, I would look to deal Gionta right now - he's got the most market value and get a D-man in return and simply bring Pelley into the fold like you mentioned, but on the 4th line.

Elias - Madden - Asham
Parise - Zajac - Langenbrunner
Pando - Brylin - Zubrus
Rupp - Pelley - Clarkson

It's drastic stuff... and I'm not one to favor those - but it is fun to play what-if. ;) Maybe I'll try those lines on NHL 08 :)

As much as I think Madden would be a stud in that role (top center) I think your are sacrificing the structure of the rest of the lines to do it. Call it the Pittsburgh effect, but I don't believe in putting all the talent in 2 lines and hoping the other 2 lines can 'break even' and just eat up the clock until the top lines are ready to roll again.

I think that line would work fine on it's own - but you would be scrambling the lines all the way down the roster (a dead last resort IMO if you plan on officially going into demolition mode).

If you did that I'd finish it like this:

Elias - Madden - Asham
Parise - Zajac - Gionta
Zubrus - Brylin - Langenbrunner
Pando - Rupp - Clarkson

This could actually work, but you're asking for a whole lot of chemistry to happen on a steep learning curve as the guys get used to each other (Madden/Elias, Zubrus/Langenbrunner, Pando/Clarkson).

Honestly, I would look to deal Gionta right now - he's got the most market value and get a D-man in return and simply bring Pelley into the fold like you mentioned, but on the 4th line.

Elias - Madden - Asham
Parise - Zajac - Langenbrunner
Pando - Brylin - Zubrus
Rupp - Pelley - Clarkson

It's drastic stuff... and I'm not one to favor those - but it is fun to play what-if. ;) Maybe I'll try those lines on NHL 08 :)

Top notch reply Richer!!! Thanks!!

I completely agree too, a whole lot does depend on chemistry...

If you look at the players on paper, Their styles do complement those lines, so chemistry has to develop, but heck, thats paper and EHM 2006.....

I also agree about Gionta, he is the most tradeable, with D coming back our way...

I really think its a matter of time before elias gets going...

Its early November, and im not worried in the slightest, people over react!!

About NHL08, ******** do we stink defensively on that game, playing on superstar, i probably concede 4 goals every game, and trying to outscore Ottawa/Pens on that game is plain cruel!!! I always end up trading gionta and viukhola for Regehr...

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

i still think they should try the line of elias-zubrus-gionta that they had during the preseason. they never used it once the season started idk why.......

No sense in coming up with projected lines when there is bound to be a trade or two to shake the offense up.

http://njmg.typepad.com/devilsblog/2007/11/langenbrunner-t.html


Although Langenbrunner still would not give a goal date for his return, it would not be surprising if he returns by the end of next week.
:D

http://njmg.typepad.com/devilsblog/2007/11/langenbrunner-t.html


Although Langenbrunner still would not give a goal date for his return, it would not be surprising if he returns by the end of next week.
:D

"He doesn't know me from anyone," he said. "I haven't been around." -Langenbrunner on Sutter waiting to name a captain.

I like the grounded realism.

Parise-Zajac-Gionta
Clarkson-Elias-Langenbrunner
Pandolfo-Madden-Zubrus
Brylin-Pelley-Asham (Rupp-extra)


Langs should be the Captain.

From last night's game (vs. Flyers) Ice Time Totals

Brylin 13:10
Pandolfo 17:21
Elias 16:14
Zubrus 13:58
Asham 5:07
Rachunek 19:14
Madden 18:55
Rupp 7:06
Vishnevski 16:38
Gionta 22:00
Martin 24:24
Oduya 18:40
Brookbank 15:52
Parise 20:15
Clarkson 11:29
Zajac 20:14
Pelley 7:54
Greene 20:33

:huh:

It is simply criminal to have Asham playing that little and Clarkson that much given what they both have done to this point and the types of penalties Clarkson has taken in the offensive zone when Asham shows great hand and awareness on offense. Sutter must have plenty of confidence in Oduya... and Gionta got a ton!

Switch Asham and Clarkson please!

I agree that Asham deserves as much ice time as Clarkson...but he doesn't have "great hands" and he doesn't have a ton of offensive awareness. He and Clarkson are pretty equal, Asham is faster, and he seems a little smarter in the offensive zone than Clarkson. To Clarkson's credit, he has gained confidence and hopefully that limits the 10-shots-from-70 feet-out-on-the-right-wing-a-game act.

They are both best suited as 3rd/4th liners, they both work hard and they both are very useful players, but they are somewhat limited in hockey sense and skill. Once Langs comes back it should help things out.

I'm not sure what the lines will be, because I would be reluctant to break up Maddolfo-Zubrus because they've played really well together on both ends of the ice. PZL had a lot of chemistry and good production, and I'd like to keep them together. I'm thinking...

Parise-Zajac-Langs
Elias-Brylin-Gionta
Maddolfo-Zubrus
Clarkson/Asham-Pelley-Clarkson/Asham

I think Brylin is far from ideal between Elias and Gionta. I also think Gionta and Parise don't really work best together. We're missing a first line center, or at least a 2nd/1b center who can do it all, like Zajac. I wouldn't be totally opposed to moving Zubrus down between Elias and Gio, but that didn't work well when they tried it earlier this year, and I think it would hurt the 3rd line. Basically, we're missing a key piece on the team, or someone is just going to have to step up. I wouldn't be opposed to having Viukhola get a chance in that role, provided that he does the job defensively. But then one of Pelley/Clarkson/Asham sit out, and they are all valuable. Sutter might just have to tinker...again.

PS...Madden and Pandolfo stick together, almost no matter what. We still need them as a shutdown unit.

I agree that Asham deserves as much ice time as Clarkson...but he doesn't have "great hands" and he doesn't have a ton of offensive awareness.

I should have inserted the qualifier [for a grinder] when referring to Asham. He's not a sniper by any means, but for what he is he is way up on the offensive thermometer. ;)

Agree - never ever touch the Maddolfo combination. It is a symbiotic relationship that is like E.T. and Elliot. Separate them and they both suffer.

Parise-Zajac-Gio
Pando-Madden-Zub
Clarkson-Elias-Lang
Brylin-Rupp/Pelley-Asham

Interesting enough i would almost like to see Elias with Pando and Madden. May be thier off wings, but the way they all hustle it may actualy work.

All i want when Langs come back if for the Jekyll and Hyde Devils to dissapear. Too much up and Down play.

Parise-Zajac-Gio
Pando-Madden-Zub
Clarkson-Elias-Lang
Brylin-Rupp/Pelley-Asham

I could see those lines. We need to keep Clarkson on one of the top 3 lines, even if it mean putting him on the off wing.

I could see those lines. We need to keep Clarkson on one of the top 3 lines, even if it mean putting him on the off wing.

He had a very strong game, just needs to finish better. Elias set him up with a gimme, you have to bury those chances.

He had a very strong game, just need to finish better. Elias set him up with a gimme, you have to bury those chances.

He almost had it, I think one of the Flyer's D tripped him up.

He almost had it, I think one of the Flyer's D tripped him up.

Actually, few more guys should have scored. How Zajac didn't score in the first period was just luck on the Flyers side. After that, I thought we were going down, but the boys kept pushing.

I agree that Asham deserves as much ice time as Clarkson...but he doesn't have "great hands" and he doesn't have a ton of offensive awareness. He and Clarkson are pretty equal, Asham is faster, and he seems a little smarter in the offensive zone than Clarkson. To Clarkson's credit, he has gained confidence and hopefully that limits the 10-shots-from-70 feet-out-on-the-right-wing-a-game act.

They are both best suited as 3rd/4th liners, they both work hard and they both are very useful players, but they are somewhat limited in hockey sense and skill. Once Langs comes back it should help things out.

I'm not sure what the lines will be, because I would be reluctant to break up Maddolfo-Zubrus because they've played really well together on both ends of the ice. PZL had a lot of chemistry and good production, and I'd like to keep them together. I'm thinking...

Parise-Zajac-Langs
Elias-Brylin-Gionta
Maddolfo-Zubrus
Clarkson/Asham-Pelley-Clarkson/Asham

I think Brylin is far from ideal between Elias and Gionta. I also think Gionta and Parise don't really work best together. We're missing a first line center, or at least a 2nd/1b center who can do it all, like Zajac. I wouldn't be totally opposed to moving Zubrus down between Elias and Gio, but that didn't work well when they tried it earlier this year, and I think it would hurt the 3rd line. Basically, we're missing a key piece on the team, or someone is just going to have to step up. I wouldn't be opposed to having Viukhola get a chance in that role, provided that he does the job defensively. But then one of Pelley/Clarkson/Asham sit out, and they are all valuable. Sutter might just have to tinker...again.

PS...Madden and Pandolfo stick together, almost no matter what. We still need them as a shutdown unit.

Have you seen some of the moves he's made this year? His stickhandling is very underrated.

Parise-Zajac-Gio
Pando-Madden-Zub
Clarkson-Elias-Lang
Brylin-Rupp/Pelley-Asham

i would not mind seeing what clarkson can do on the off wing, his biggest flaw is when he gets the puck flat footed along the wall; he has to improve his initial burst of speed, once he gets going he is fine

i like these lines though

I agree that Asham deserves as much ice time as Clarkson...but he doesn't have "great hands" and he doesn't have a ton of offensive awareness. He and Clarkson are pretty equal, Asham is faster, and he seems a little smarter in the offensive zone than Clarkson. To Clarkson's credit, he has gained confidence and hopefully that limits the 10-shots-from-70 feet-out-on-the-right-wing-a-game act.

They are both best suited as 3rd/4th liners, they both work hard and they both are very useful players, but they are somewhat limited in hockey sense and skill. Once Langs comes back it should help things out.

I'm not sure what the lines will be, because I would be reluctant to break up Maddolfo-Zubrus because they've played really well together on both ends of the ice. PZL had a lot of chemistry and good production, and I'd like to keep them together. I'm thinking...

Parise-Zajac-Langs
Elias-Brylin-Gionta
Maddolfo-Zubrus
Clarkson/Asham-Pelley-Clarkson/Asham

I think Brylin is far from ideal between Elias and Gionta. I also think Gionta and Parise don't really work best together. We're missing a first line center, or at least a 2nd/1b center who can do it all, like Zajac. I wouldn't be totally opposed to moving Zubrus down between Elias and Gio, but that didn't work well when they tried it earlier this year, and I think it would hurt the 3rd line. Basically, we're missing a key piece on the team, or someone is just going to have to step up. I wouldn't be opposed to having Viukhola get a chance in that role, provided that he does the job defensively. But then one of Pelley/Clarkson/Asham sit out, and they are all valuable. Sutter might just have to tinker...again.

PS...Madden and Pandolfo stick together, almost no matter what. We still need them as a shutdown unit.


I agree. These lines exactly are what I would go with.

Try Parise back at center? Elias needs Zajac to do anything.

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

I'm really afraid to break up the PZL line.

Elias - Zubrus - Gionta
Parise - Zajac - Langs
Pando - Madden - Asham
Brylin - Pelley - Clarkson

I know those are obvious lines but...

I'm really afraid to break up the PZL line.

Elias - Zubrus - Gionta
Parise - Zajac - Langs
Pando - Madden - Asham
Brylin - Pelley - Clarkson

I know those are obvious lines but...

I like those lines so so much. We need to throw Zubrus back at center. That IS why we signed him.

zubrus has not worked at center and he looks good on the line he is on so we need to get another center to have 4 REAL solid lines.

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

Why not try Langs as a center? He's a veteran that knows the game and has always been defensively responsible. Langs as a center between Elias and Gionta could maybe jumpstart those two.

love brylin but he really does not belong on the top 2 lines barring injury, etc.
i really think they should try elias/zubrus/gionta
or that combo with elias as center and zubrus on the wing.
zubrus is out of his funk, and those 3 are great players...just play them and see what happens! much better than waisting elias with brylin and clarkson!

definately think jamie needs to play with the 2 fighting souix.

Not for nothing, but Parise is the kind of player that will thrive anywhere, so why not Elias-Parise-Langenbrunner? Who cares what he did on the left wing last year, put him there now and see that happens...can't really get any worse.

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

Elias played the best hockey of his career playing the better part of the 2nd 1/2 of 05-06 as the LW of Brylin at Center and Langenbrunner at RW.

It is much more crucial to get Elias going then to reunite PZL. Keep Gionta on Right Wing of Parise-Zajac.

Let Elias play either LW or C as a set up man with Zubrus (off wing or Center on nights Patty plays LW) and Langenbrunner

Well Elias looked good out there with Gionta tonight. It might be a good idea to let them stay together for a while now.

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

Well Elias looked good out there with Gionta tonight. It might be a good idea to let them stay together for a while now.

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

I like these lines. I really though Zubrus played excellent tonight with Zajac and Parise. Maybe they can develop some chemistry. This team desperately needs a center. Brylin as your second line center is not going to cut it for very long in this league.

I know hindsight is 20/20 but I would love to have picked up Mike Comrie in the off-season. He has played terrific for the Islanders and is a huge reason why their offense has done well so far.

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

I know hindsight is 20/20 but I would love to have picked up Mike Comrie in the off-season. He has played terrific for the Islanders and is a huge reason why their offense has done well so far.

Parise-Zajac-Zubrus
Elias-Comrie-Gionta
Pandolfo-Madden-Langenbrunner
Clarkson-Brylin-Asham
If we're playing the hindsight game, I match your Mike Comrie and I raise you a "why didn't we draft Paul Stastny instead of Niklas Bergfors?"

If we're playing the hindsight game, I match your Mike Comrie and I raise you a "why didn't we draft Paul Stastny instead of Niklas Bergfors?"

Ouch.

Have to keep Zub with Madden and Pando, he looks like a different player.

I would give Elias, Brylin and Jamie a shot and also keep Gio with the kids for now.

I think maybe we should go back to the lines we had in the beginning of the season. For a stretch those lines were producing... Something like :

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



oooo i likey.

Yeah the Pando Madden Asham line was doing very well for awhile. But I also like Pando Madden and Zubrus.