Canucks Counting on Mikheyev, Suter, Kuzmenko Line to Step Up in Production”
Following a disheartening defeat against the St. Louis Blues on January 4, the Vancouver Canucks implemented a significant shake-up to their lineup, marking a turning point in their recent performance. Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet orchestrated the reunion of Brock Boeser, Elias Pettersson, and J.T. Miller on the top line, affectionately known as the Lotto Line.
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Canucks
Since this strategic move, the Canucks have embarked on an impressive 7-0-1 run in their last eight games, with their sole loss occurring in a shootout during a challenging road trip.
Elias Pettersson has been instrumental in this successful stretch, amassing an impressive 10 goals and 16 points, complemented by J.T. Miller’s 13 points and Brock Boeser’s contribution of 7 points, despite facing setbacks with three disallowed goals. Notably, the third line, aptly named The Good Job Boys, made a substantial impact with seven goals, spearheaded by Conor Garland’s four goals, and Nils Höglander added four more from the fourth line.
However, the line of Ilya Mikheyev, Pius Suter, and Andrei Kuzmenko, ostensibly the second line, has struggled to produce desired results in the last eight games. In contrast to the overall team’s success, this trio has been scoreless, raising concerns about their effectiveness as a scoring line.
Suter expressed frustration about their lack of output, acknowledging the need for improvement. Despite a recent game against the Toronto Maple Leafs that showcased promising shifts, they still couldn’t find the finishing touch to get on the scoreboard. Suter emphasized the importance of capitalizing on opportunities, recognizing that scoring is crucial for the team’s success.
Coach Tocchet observed positive aspects in their recent performance, noting improved connectedness among the players. However, he pointed out the need for Mikheyev to utilize his speed more effectively, emphasizing the importance of a connected style of play for him to thrive. The challenge lies in fostering a cohesive dynamic that allows Mikheyev to showcase his strengths.
While Kuzmenko has faced criticism, Mikheyev’s struggles have not gone unnoticed. Tocchet highlighted Mikheyev’s tendency to skate backward and search for the puck when not connected with the line, emphasizing the need for a supportive and connected playing style to maximize Mikheyev’s potential.
For Suter, who enjoyed success before being paired with Mikheyev and Kuzmenko, the non-connection has presented challenges. Tocchet recognizes Suter’s cerebral and smart playing style but acknowledges the difficulty when a player is isolated due to a lack of connection within the team.
Tocchet believes that the line possesses the right ingredients, combining Kuzmenko’s puck-handling skills, Mikheyev’s speed, and Suter’s intelligence. However, the key challenge is transforming these elements into a cohesive and effective line.
As the Canucks look to maintain their winning streak, the spotlight is on the ostensibly top-six line of Mikheyev, Suter, and Kuzmenko. The coaching staff is eager to see if they can absorb the recent feedback, build on the positives, and elevate their performance in the upcoming games. The outcome of their efforts will determine whether this line can sustain its place within the team’s strategic lineup.
