3) Where does Nikita Scherbak fit in the lineup? Is he a lock to make the team out of camp and if so, what are your predictions for him this season?
NL: I think Scherbak isn’t quite a lock he will need to prove he belongs but it is his spot to lose. I see him playing up on the second line in the NHL with all that being said I have faith in him. I say 15-20 goals, 35-40 points.
ZC: Scherbak’s skillset provides a lot of intrigue for the Canadiens coaching staff. His frame and talent should put him in the top-six forwards for the Montreal Canadiens, but it’s difficult to say for sure. Scherbak was definitely one of the bright spots for the team last season, but he will still have to earn a spot on the big club this year. I don’t think I’ll be alone in saying this, but I’m not concerned whatsoever with his point totals last year. I think with more powerplay time, and consistency in linemates, that Scherbak could crack the 40 point mark this season.
KR: I think Scherbak is as close to a lock as you can get without being a lock. I don’t mean to sit on the fence on this one. I do see him making the club out of camp but I can also see him not making it. He had a good camp last year and then got injured. His stint in the AHL showed he does have NHL skill and when he got called back up he showed flashes of puck control and creativity that got fans excited. Of course, Coach Claude cares about both sides of the ice and I think that if Scherbak shows a commitment to his own end he’ll make the club. Plus, he will be one of the rare Habs whose game is more offensive oriented and the Habs will need his offense. So yeah, he’s a lock…maybe.
On the club, he has to play top-six minutes. As I’ve mentioned before this will be a growing year, so I’m all for giving the kids minutes and letting the kids learn. Mistakes be damned! Make a mistake and let him continue with a regular shift. Hopefully, Coach Claude will let him play his game and learn at the same time. Max Domi, Jonathan Drouin, and Scherbak? Sure. Give him powerplay time too.