Quote:
Originally Posted by orcatown
Gillis has also said that he wants to take the 3rd line in a new direction. I think that direction is indicated by the dumping of Wellwood and the pickup of Malhotra.
I think he sees the line as checking line which can chip in some offensively. Putting in Hodgson to replace Wellwood is really not a move in that direction while putting Malhotra at center certainly is.
It is difficult for me to see Hodgson anchoring a defensive line at the NHL level. Ultimately I see Hodgson as being a decent two way player but not as a player separating people from the puck in the defensive zone. I just don't think Hodgson is a player you put in that role and that would certainly be true in the near term.
Whether Hodgson is a better option on the wing than other options the Canucks have is open to question IMO. I think the contract situation does factor in somewhat here, especially given that the fact that Hodgson doesn't have to clear waivers, as others do, and others are cheaper.
I think the point that McGuire made July 1st does apply and that signing of Malhotra, and now the attainment of Raymond at a good cap hit, puts Hodgson in a much more iffy position as far as starting the year with the Canucks.
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yeah, Hodgson will be a very interesting wildcard this camp and preseason. I could see him panning out in 4 scenarios, with liklihood percentages, just for fun ...
1. Off the team (25%)
2. 3rd line W (40%) Hodgson-Malhotra-Hansen
3. 3rd line C (25%) Malhotra-Hodgson-Hansen
4. 2nd line W (10%) Raymond-Kesler-Hodgson
#1 is most likely, with Manny carrying the load, Hodgson eases in.
#2 is a good news scenario, with Hodgson developing strong 2-way play for a rookie
#3 is the great news scenario, with Hodgson performing up to his potential way faster than expected (a la Chicago young guns.) This would allow for a defensively killer 3rd line of Sammy-Manny-Janny.
the possibilities are intriguing...