Initial Creation Date: Oct. 8, 2022

Published: Oct. 16, 2022

Team: 2022-23 Vancouver Canucks

The biggest priority is getting more out of Miller and Horvat. That starts with loading up the top-6, which ideally would be done already but we don't have a 3C.

Pettersson and Horvat are a good fit because while Horvat takes the draws, he doesn't actually play the middle of the ice very often. He's usually the first forward flying the zone and pushing up ice because he's strong on the rush. Pettersson actually defends down low and is very sound positionally. It's a good fit and Kuzmenko has been our most dangerous player with Pettersson so keep that going.

Miller will be ready to make up for his start, but he needs reliable support. Pearson has been solid so far, but Mikheyev would bring a lot of speed, tenacity and fight to the line. Miller is at his best when playing aggressive but not necessarily fast and these two wingers can allow him to do that. Mikheyev is relentless and should raise the compete level more than Boeser who has had a lackluster start. Could also switch Podkolzin in for Pearson.

From there, we have two solid wing pairs remaining. Pettersson, Horvat and Miller should consistently alternate taking additional shifts with these wingers throughout the game depending on the situation. Aman has been solid so far as a big body that can skate and push play the other way.