Sam Hitchcock: Maximizing Palat's Value

Since Cooper is here to stay, unfortunately, then I wouldn't expect too much in the way of sensible line construction or smart usage of players' roles. Cooper has favorites and he leans on those, regardless of the situation. The problem is Cooper, not the players.

I've always been an advocate or fan for Palat. I really think if he could shake the Injury bug he could be great, but I understand what you say is likely true. I would hate to see him go, but we do still have young guys that might fill his role. I'm hoping to watch more hockey this year, I worked too many nights to see much last year.

I like Palat.... but... I feel like he's riding off of reputation over output.

He still hustles but the production just hasn't been there. Whether this is injury or whatever... well... fine... but the results aren't there, and it's a hefty cap hit.

He, Johnny and Killorn are on borrowed time.

Agree with the posts above. I think most fans like Palat. From all appearances (media, otherwise), he is a decent guy. And nobody questions his hustle when he's on the ice. But, like everyone is saying - the production has dropped off a cliff and he seems to be running on his reputation from the Triplets' moment in the sun as the best line in hockey for a single season..... how many years ago was that now?

I'd be happy to drop him down to the 3rd line and put him back on the PK. I wouldn't be so quick to pull Cirelli off the PK entirely. A big part of the reason the PK improved last year was Cirelli. Take him out, and the overall efficiency of the unit might suffer again.

What do you guys think we should run for a 3rd line? Palat, Killorn, Joseph?

What do you guys think we should run for a 3rd line? Palat, Killorn, Joseph?
- BoltsFan1993

I still want Cirelli as the 3c. Rolling out three strong centermen is a luxury very few teams can do with the ability the Bolts' top three pivots have.

Seriously...
Stamkos
Point
Cirelli

Jeez...

I still want Cirelli as the 3c. Rolling out three strong centermen is a luxury very few teams can do with the ability the Bolts' top three pivots have.

Seriously...
Stamkos
Point
Cirelli

Jeez...
- OzBolts

Sorry I'm just bored these days. Would you think a top 9 like.....
Gourde - Stamkos - Kucherov
Killorn - Point - Johnson
Palat - Cirelli - Joseph
?

Sorry I'm just bored these days. Would you think a top 9 like.....
Gourde - Stamkos - Kucherov
Killorn - Point - Johnson
Palat - Cirelli - Joseph
?
- BoltsFan1993

I think that's close. Maybe swap Johnny and Kuch... I like have them split up for layering purposes.

Also, Joseph on the 2nd line with Point and Kuch could be interesting.

So, maybe like:

Gourde-Stammer-Johnny
Joseph-Point-Kuch
Palat-Cirelli-Killorn

I know it changes Jo's wing, but worth a shot (and Killer can play either, anyways).

I'd rather have Cirelli in the top six than Killorn or Joseph.

I'd rather have Cirelli in the top six than Killorn or Joseph.
- jvar17

Then show us what you got bro [/img]