Nick Suzuki could benefit greatly from a change of role with the Habs
Nick Suzuki is labeled as the Montreal Canadiens' undisputed number one center right now.
He's a natural leader, he's talented and he's responsible in all three zones on the ice. In short, he is a steal for Marc Bergevin. He will be a great player for the Habs for a long time.
However, is he really the first center that the Tricolore has been waiting for for so long?
In a team that is a contender for top honors, Suzuki would most likely be in a more subdued role than the one he has now.
Wouldn't he be even more effective in a second center role on a team with a lot of offensive talent? Clearly he could!
Take the examples of Evgeni Malkin, Mark Messier and Pete Mahovlich. They have built their careers in a second center role and have excelled in that situation.
If the Habs could acquire another top-six center in the next few years, we shouldn't be surprised if the offensive responsibilities are split. With less responsibility, Suzuki could provide a lot more quality hockey for his team, because let's face it, these days he's overworked with all the absentees.
If it's through the draft, especially in 2022, could the Habs benefit greatly from a "one-two punch" of either Nick Suzuki and Shane Wright or Nick Suzuki and Matthew Savoie in the short term? YES, we do!
If not, Jeff Gorton could acquire the services of an elite center by way of a trade or even through the free agent market. Who knows?
One thing is for sure, Suzuki needs support, especially at center! With that support, the Habs could have a formidable offense this time around. Like it or not, the losses of Danault and Kotkaniemi must have made Nick Suzuki want to tear his hair out, despite his very calm temperament...
Jeff Gorton's new management will ABSOLUTELY have to get help in the face-off circle. It's a vital need!
