The NHL’s New Line Combinations: A Look at Early Season Experiments
As the 2024-25 NHL season unfolds, fans and analysts alike are noticing a flurry of changes in team lineups. Whether flipping through channels or scrolling through social media, you might find yourself asking, “Why is that player in such a prominent role?” or “What’s with that position switch?” These questions arise not from a sense of disapproval but from a natural curiosity about the strategic decisions teams make as they navigate the complexities of the season.
Just over a week into the new season, we’re already witnessing numerous players taking on roles that are either elevated, notably different, or entirely unexpected. These shifts are often experimental, with teams keenly observing how players adapt to their new responsibilities. While it’s too early to draw definitive conclusions, let’s dive into some intriguing early-season experiments that have caught the eye.
Troy Stecher: A New Top-Four Defenseman
The Experiment: Top-four role
The Stats: 4 GP, 0G-0A-0P, 16:25 ATOI
Troy Stecher has stepped into a second-pair role for the Edmonton Oilers after previous attempts with Ty Emberson and Travis Dermott didn’t pan out. Having covered Stecher during his time in Vancouver, I’ve always viewed him as an underrated defenseman. The question remains: can he serve as a reliable stopgap until the Oilers secure a more established top-four blueliner?
Stecher, standing at 5-foot-10, may not fit the traditional mold of a top defenseman, but he compensates with excellent skating ability and a fierce competitive spirit. His experience with the Vancouver Canucks has provided him with valuable top-four experience, and while he hasn’t been a perfect solution, he’s played competent hockey. His quickness has allowed him to contribute positively to breakouts, and he’s shown an ability to keep offensive possessions alive with smart pinches.
However, Stecher’s limitations become apparent when faced with tougher matchups against top-six forwards. His occasional mistakes, such as a bad tripping penalty against Jason Robertson, highlight the challenges he faces in this elevated role. While he may not be the long-term answer for the Oilers, he’s certainly the best option they have for now.
Philip Broberg: A Promising Start in St. Louis
The Experiment: Top-four role
The Stats: 6 GP, 1G-5A-6P, 19:42 ATOI
Philip Broberg has quickly established himself as a key player for the St. Louis Blues after being poached from the Oilers. This opportunity comes at a crucial time for the 23-year-old, who has faced ups and downs in his development. So far, Broberg’s performance has been nothing short of impressive.
With a point in every game and no five-on-five goals against, Broberg has formed a strong defensive pairing with Justin Faulk. His effortless skating and confident puck-carrying have allowed him to escape forechecking pressure and contribute offensively. A standout moment was his assist on Jake Neighbours’ overtime winner, showcasing his ability to make plays under pressure.
While Broberg’s start has been stellar, he’s not without flaws. His current PDO suggests he’s benefiting from favorable bounces, and there will inevitably be learning moments as he adjusts to the rigors of a top-four role. Nevertheless, his early success indicates he could be a core part of the Blues’ defensive future.
Kirby Dach: Testing the Waters as a Second-Line Center
The Experiment: Second-line center
The Stats: 6 GP, 0G-1A-1P, 15:49 ATOI
For the Montreal Canadiens, finding a reliable second-line center is a significant challenge. Kirby Dach, who previously found success on the wing, is now being evaluated in this crucial role. However, his early performance has raised some concerns.
Dach’s line has struggled, controlling only 34 percent of five-on-five shot attempts and being outscored 6-0. His decision-making and speed have been inconsistent, leading to turnovers and missed opportunities. While he has shown flashes of potential, such as leveraging his reach defensively, his overall impact has been limited.
Given his recent injury history, it’s essential to allow Dach some leeway as he shakes off the rust. However, if his struggles continue, a return to the wing might be necessary to help him regain his confidence.
Pavel Buchnevich: A Transition to Center
The Experiment: Shifting from wing to second-line center
The Stats: 6 GP, 3G-1A-4P
Pavel Buchnevich’s transition from wing to center has been an ongoing experiment for the Blues. While he has shown he can handle the responsibilities of a center, his effectiveness has been mixed.
Buchnevich has struggled in the faceoff circle, winning only 37.7 percent of his draws. However, he has also demonstrated his offensive prowess when shifted back to the wing, where he has looked more dangerous. The Blues have out-chanced opponents significantly when Buchnevich plays alongside Robert Thomas, indicating that his impact is felt more on the wing.
Despite some defensive lapses and a learning curve associated with his new role, Buchnevich has the potential to be an effective center. The Blues’ success so far suggests that they can afford to continue this experiment, but it remains to be seen if he can fully adapt.
Philipp Kurashev: A New Role in Chicago
The Experiment: Second-line center
The Stats: 6 GP, 1G-0A-1P, 15:54 ATOI
Philipp Kurashev’s shift to the second-line center role for the Chicago Blackhawks comes after a breakout season last year. While he started strong, his recent performance has been less impactful.
Kurashev’s line has struggled to generate offense, scoring only one goal in six games. He appears comfortable in his new role but has missed opportunities to drive play. His recent struggles have led to speculation about his spot in the lineup, with reports suggesting he may be a healthy scratch.
Despite these challenges, Kurashev has shown potential in his play-driving results. The Blackhawks have outperformed their opponents in shots and expected goals during his ice time, indicating that he may be due for a turnaround.
As the season progresses, these experiments will continue to unfold, providing fans with plenty of intrigue and analysis. Each player’s adaptation to their new roles will be closely monitored, shaping the narratives of their respective teams as they strive for success in the NHL.