Based on what I saw late in the third period last night, I expect that the experiment of Ron Francis at left wing is over. The Murray, Francis, O'Neil line was dominating for the brief period that they were together.

A line of Vrbata, Staal, Svobota could put less pressure on all three young guys, if the Brind'Amour and Francis lines are both creating enough chances. People on this board have touted Vrbata as a future 30 goal scorer, making him a logical choice to pair with Staal.

It was too much to ask of an 18 year old to play on the top line anyway. The fourth line can take more ice time against more physical teams.