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Fogz144

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Forum: Armchair-GMOct. 23, 2020 at 9:39 p.m.
Thread: How I think theyll start the year without more trades
<div class="quote"><div class="quote_t">Quoting: <b>Claesson4Norris</b></div><div>I really struggle to see how Norris doesn't make this team. I kind of see L.Brown being a potential fit at LW more than C. The organization clearly isn't fully comfortable with trusting him with all the responsibilities of being a C, and playing him at LW makes room for him and Norris.

Also I'm pretty confident Brannstrom will be on this team. There's no reason for Mike Reilly to be playing ahead of Wolanin or Brannstrom imo.</div></div>

They have experimented with Brown on the wing and it failed miserably. He has to be a centre. Norris will make his way into the lineup sooner rather than later but right now the stakes are much higher for Brown to make this team and get an extended look. If Norris doesn't start in the opening lineup, it's not the end of the world (see Batherson last year). Having a stable role as third line centre with familiar and capable linemates like Paul and Batherson could be the perfect opportunity he simply hasn't had in the NHL.

And about Brannstrom, there are a couple reasons why Reilly could be playing instead of him. The first being he is one of 6 defensemen on this team with a 1-way contract. That isn't a factor that can be ignored. Another reason is to have someone there who can fill in a top-6 role in case Brannstrom doesn't earn a spot in camp. Brannstrom clearly needed more development last year and he doesn't just magically become NHL ready when the season starts up again. I hope he does, but there's a really good chance he doesn't make the team. If that's the case, Reilly performed more than fine in Ottawa last season and I don't see the harm in acting as a placeholder until Brannstrom is ready. No point in rushing him if he's not ready. I don't think another year of 0 goals and 4 assists would be good for his development or confidence.