How Kapanen could cause a ruckus
Who is the domino that falls if Oliver Kapanen forces the Habs' hand at camp?
During the Montreal Canadiens second preseason game, Jake Evans centred a line between Joel Armia and Brendan Gallagher.
This appears to be a line that the Habs might look to roll with or maybe not. But with the inspiring play of Oliver Kapanen, even if he doesn't make the team out of camp, he has done some heavy lifting. Kapanen has looked like a guy who intends not to return to Sweden.
Oliver Kapanen doesn’t wanna go back to Sweden 🇸🇪 https://t.co/VyyjV8TJgW
— /r/Habs (@HabsOnReddit) September 23, 2024
It would take some convincing play by Kapanen to force Kent Hughes's hand in a trade. But, I would have to think there have been some internal chats about what sort of moves would happen should he grab a spot. With Evans, Nick Suzuki, Kirby Dach and Christian Dvorak there are too many centres unless one is to be moved to the wing.
Let's assume that Kapanen does get in the good graces and crack the roster, I would have to think that Dvorak will be the odd man out. They will undoubtedly have to retain salary on his $5.075 million cap hit, but his deal expires after this season. That should make him an enticing addition, should he start being shopped.
Kapanen on the third line
I think there is a little more substance to Kapanen's all-around game than Evans's, so if he does crack the roster, I don't imagine he will stay on the fourth line for long. If he does play on the fourth line, it will be to acclimate to the speed and physicality. But I think his 200-foot game has been most impressive, so I don't see how he doesn't play in the top nine in short order.
His brain and feet work almost in synch, when the puck is on his stick there is no rush, and he does everything with confidence. He creates havoc along the boards, forcing turnovers and never giving up on plays. And in the offensive zone, he is equal parts passer and shooter, which will open up a ton of space for his linemates.
With veteran wingers like Gallagher and Armia, I think that Kapanen could learn an awful lot. Now, this is all on the basis that he cracks the Habs roster. But, if he does, there could be much worse options for him to integrate into the NHL game.
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