That is traditional thinking of course.
But centers are also more heavily relied on than the wings to control the defensive play, which is where this team places it's importance. (getting in position to block the passing lane and forcing the puck carrier to pass into whatever area your system has it's man advantage away from the puck - yay I didn't mention trap
) They are also expected to win some faceoffs, or at least it's more efficient to be in position for your other responsibilities if the center can take the faceoff
It's such a pivotal position, which is why I've always appreciated a center that can drive to the net when there's a chance for it. Of course you coach your passing plays, learn where to expect each other coming off the boards and such, but what you just can't coach is being big enough to protect the puck and drive to the net and being a threat to score. Scoring to me, is more of an art than a science and I'm not suggesting that Phillip necessarily will be an efficient NHL scorer, but being a threat is
always better than not because you can potentially draw players out of passing lanes and create more opportunities. Conversely if you're more of a scorer it doesn't hurt to be a threat to pass ... it all just builds on itself in modern hockey.
