Arizona Coyotes: Full line combination predictions for 2018-19
By Nick McAdam
Third line: Richard Panik-Christian Dvorak-Christian Fischer
With more skill meant and added to the top portion of the lineup, the chances of Richard Panik seeing top minutes seem very bleak. Even when playing on the top line for portions of the past season, the former Chicago Blackhawk amassed eight goals and 11 assists, which was not close to keeping pace with the likes of Keller and Stepan.
The hope on this line is that Panik can feed off two up-and-coming stars and Dvorak and Fischer. The duo are very young and have amazing pace combined with a nag for goal. Combined, the two scored an incredible 30 goals and 40 assists.
Furthermore, this means a lot of production is going to be coming from this line. Rick Tocchet can give some good rest to his top lines knowing that his third line has a very good chance at ending a particular shift with a high-quality scoring chance.
As time goes on, both Dvorak and Fischer can surely move up the lineup. There’s no harm in that since Tocchet can simply move down Hinostroza or Strome; which again provides more energy to the game of Panik.
It could be a very productive combination if all goes to plan. The third line might be the most crucial of the entire offense. A lot of minute conserving and contributions falls on the shoulders of a pair of young players and a aging veteran.