Second Line Carrying Offense
The second line of John Tavares, William Nylander, and Nick Robertson has been carrying the offense as of late as their 20+ million dollar duo in Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner find their game.
Though, results can be deceiving.
The Leafs top line has been their best line, they just aren’t getting rewarded. It’s only a matter of time.
Robertson has two goals, both coming from his debut, but he still makes a positive impact with his speed and shot. Nylander, when not on the PK, is a solid offensive player despite his tendency to give up on plays.
The most important member of this line, however, is John Tavares, who is back on the shelf with an injury. His hot start to the season was the lone bright spot out of the Maple Leaf’s core, scoring 7 points.
Auston Matthews has six points, and it is really only a matter of time until he starts scoring and Mitch Marner
With Tavares potentially out, Keefe should use this time to make some changes to the lineup. Maybe place Robertson with Matthews and Marner, and Nylander with Michael Bunting and Calle Jarnkrok or Alex Kerfoot.
Anything to get Matthews going should be prioritized, however some changes to the system may also lead to success without lineup changes, and this is the next takeaway.