Which center would bring out the best in Kessel?
Kessel and Malkin.
Kessel and Crosby.
What a 1st world problem to have.
Either lineup sounds terrific. And I am sure that both will be tested. Especially if they want to push Kessel to more than 4 goals per 60 minutes.
Dan Rosen from the NHL.com believes the answer is Malkin.
And maybe on paper he is right. But, I have to believe that Crosby+Kessel would be a better lineup and not detract from the shots that Malkin needs to take to be successful.
Time will tell.
Highlights from Rosen’s analysis (read the full article here):
Kessel is a goal-scorer, and his best success comes from a high volume of shots. Malkin, more of a goal-scoring center, also must shoot the puck frequently. The season Malkin and Neal played together at even strength, they had 339 and 329 shots on goal, respectively. If the Penguins can figure out how to get Malkin and Kessel to each manage more than 300 shots on goal this season, they will be a better team.
Kessel averaged 300 shots on goal per season in his five 82-game seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs. He never played with a center comparable to Malkin while there.
The reason Neal thrived with Malkin is the same reason Kessel should. Neal had time to read and react off Malkin, who likes to carry the puck and play an east-west, change-of-speed game. Neal, reading Malkin, would play stealth-like and pop out in a scoring area at the right moment for a Malkin pass.
Together, Malkin and Neal were unpredictable, which worked to their advantage. Kessel, like Neal, can get open. And Kessel’s shot, with its quick release, accuracy and heaviness, is better than Neal’s.
With Kessel and Malkin on the ice together, there would be constant movement and interplay between two threats able to score on virtually any possession in the attacking zone.
Crosby plays more of a north-south game of direct lines and quick puck movement. Crosby’s linemates have to think the game quickly, react quickly, and be ready in a hurry. He wants his wings to be predictable.
