Edited Apr. 21, 2023 at 11:55 a.m.
I feel that debrincat would mesh better with the way the blues have played historically, however, I feel the league is changing. I personally do not love the Kyrou signing much because I prefer more physicality. I don’t mean Ryan Reeves, I mean simply somebody like Jaden Schwartz or Robby Fabbri - two of the least physical Blues in decades, yet still totally capable of using their body to win board battles. I feel when Kyrou’s line fails a zone entry it is such a high rate of change of possession because it is essentially 4v5 while he hides from the slightest physical play, often reaching with his stick instead of just putting his body into the play.
I would prefer Debrincat, but I feel the way the NHL is changing, that it’s best to pass.
Ultimately, the NHL is reducing physical play. First it was interference, then checks from behind, then slashes to the hands, then head shots. I feel that trend will persist, with charging next, and eventually even board hitting entirely removed from the game. As this occurs, Kyrous value increases, while Debrincat is older and will see his value decrease.
To give an example of reduction in physical play, I would guess that within 2 years the Dumba hit on Pavelski will become a suspension worthy hit even though it is currently legal. That will become charging, where Dumba crosses over a few times before the hit. Players simply can exert too much force due to advances in performance, weight of equipment, and year round training. The rules for hockey were written when skates weighed 5 pounds, players smoked in the locker room, and pre-season was all of their off season training.