Unveiled: The Shocking NHL Centers Rankings That Could Reshape the Playoff Race
Aside from that, Washington’s only external need is another bottom-six center to pair with Nic Dowd. Ideally, Dowd works as a wonderful defensive 4C and someone is brought in above him. But he’s strong enough that getting a depth center to play behind him is also fine.
16. Pittsburgh Penguins
Current quality: 44th percentile
Looking for: Top-six center
There’s a reason this could be Evgeni Malkin’s last year with Pittsburgh. He’s starting to fall short of expectations. Malkin’s age (39 on opening night), combined with his drop in point production (50 in 68 games, 1.65 per 60 at five-on-five), has him projecting as a below-average second-line center for the first time in his career. He once was an MVP-caliber superstar. Then, he was an elite 2C. Then, he was an adequately, appropriately paid 2C. Now, we’re talking about the end of the line. Age and injury catch up with everyone.
Post Comment