Newhook-Kapanen-Demidov: That second line really isn’t all that bad

Michaël Petit
Newhook-Kapanen-Demidov: That second line really isn’t all that bad
Credit: Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images

As we all know, ideally, the Montreal Canadiens need a really good second-line center—and even another top-6 winger to play alongside Ivan Demidov.

However, given the current trade market, we've noticed that prices are exorbitant, and it's not necessarily worth it to acquire a top-6 player. That's probably the main reason Kent Hughes hasn't made any moves this summer (aside from trades involving the Laval Rocket and the Brendan Gallagher trade).

For now, Oliver Kapanen and Alex Newhook would be the logical choices to play alongside Demidov, and honestly, that's really not so bad.

As a second line, they more than get the job done, without necessarily being a dominant second line.

On an equal-strength basis, Newhook and Kapanen ranked second in the NHL in goals per 60 minutes, behind Wyatt Johnston and Jason Robertson in Dallas.

That's what Grant McCagg pointed out in his latest episode of HabsCast (around the 59-minute mark).

The fact that Newhook and Kapanen ranked second in the entire NHL is truly impressive, and the Johnston-Robertson duo is no slouch either. Moreover, the difference between these two pairs is very slight.

(Credit: HabsCast)

We also see the Slafkovsky-Suzuki duo in this table, but as you might expect, many of their points were scored on the power play.

So in reality, a Newhook-Kapanen-Demidov line wouldn't be a disaster at all. In fact, given the team's current situation, it's the ideal scenario.

It's also worth noting that Newhook and Kapanen play on the penalty kill and are quite responsible defensively, so they'll be able to cover for Demidov if he makes any turnovers.

Furthermore, we know that Newhook is very fast and still has good offensive instincts, and Kapanen has VERY often scored on a pass from Demidov.

Honestly, I think we should start with this trio on the second line, and if any changes are needed, there are other options (like Slafkovsky on the second line).


In a nutshell

– It's now official.

– Stay tuned.

– Read more.

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