With the end of the lockout, I know have time to look at what the potential 2012-2013 (specifically 2013 cause of the stupid lockout) Colorado Avalanche Roster is. I will look at the forwards, defenceman and goaltenders separately and explain what combinations/lines and why. Starting with the forwards:
Line #1 LW: Gabriel Landeskog C: Matt Duchene RW: PA Parenteau
Duchene moves back into his role as the #1 C, and having Landeskog and Parenteau on his wing is really going to benefit him. The line will have a lot of talent, as Landeskog does pretty much everything at both ends while Duchene and Parenteau excel offensively. Duchene and Landeskog will benefit from the play-making ability of Parenteau, and if this is indeed the top line look for a lot of production.
Line #2 LW: Jamie McGinn C: Ryan O'Reilly RW Steve Downie
This has the potential to be a 2nd or 3rd line, but I see this line becoming one of the leagues toughest to play against. O'Reilly is already turning into one of the games best defensive forwards, and pending his contract issues he will look to build on his solid play last year. McGinn and Downie were both acquired at the trade deadline, and made immediate impacts last season. Downie had 13 points in 20 games, including 10 in his first 7 games as an av. McGinn played 17 games for the avs, scoring 8 goals and 13 points in that time. Both guys provided an offensive spark, but also are physical forwards and this line can have that nasty edge thats tough to play (especially Downie)
Line #3 LW David Jones C Paul Stastny RW Milan Hejduk
This is the 3rd/2nd line however you look at it, just is more offensive-minded then the O'Reilly line. All 3 players have skill, but have struggled the past few seasons behind the younger forwards emerging (Landeskog Duchene O'Reilly). Look for this line to contribute when on, but struggle at times as well.
Line #4 LW Cody McLeod C John Mitchell RW Olver
Very standard 4th line, McLeod hits and fights, Olver is all hustle, and Mitchell is new to the team and is a good utility forward to replace McClement.
13th Forward: Michael Sgarbossa - the young forward acquired from the Sharks is playing well in his first pro season, with 13 goals and 28 points in 34 games with the avs AHL affiliate the Lake Erie Monsters. Chuck Kobasew/Mike Connolly/Brad Malone just miss the cut
-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News
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