Drouin and MacKinnon latest pair to audition with McDavid
Another day, another set of wingers for Connor McDavid.
This is becoming a regular occurrence for the Team North America captain, whose forward line is not only the most coveted on the team but also the most puzzling. Five players have auditioned for the jobs. And while there have been varying degrees of chemistry, head coach Todd McLellan is still searching for the magic formula that will maximize McDavid’s ability.
“This is our last chance to tinker with lineups, not that it won’t happen in the tournament,” McLellan said, looking toward Wednesday’s final exhibition game against the Czech Republic.
“But as much as we’re looking for full lines, we’re looking for pairs and combinations of players that seem to be clicking.”
In particular, North America is trying to find the perfect fit for McDavid. The Calder Trophy finalist was on a line with Jonathan Drouin and Mark Scheifele in the first exhibition game against Europe and then played with Johnny Gaudreau and Jack Eichel in the second game.
Though North America combined for 11 goals in the two wins, McDavid is still searching for his first point.
And so McLellan, who put McDavid alongside Drouin and Nathan MacKinnon during Tuesday’s practice, continues to look for a combination that can get North America’s most talented player on the scoresheet by the time the tournament starts.
“Connor, Johnny and Jack had a number of opportunities the other day, a number of odd-man rushes that ended up near or at the net without finishing that chance, so we’re going to have to get better in that area,” said McLellan.
“It’s not just about Connor or Johnny or Jack, it’s about the team as a whole and trying to find the right combinations.”
McDavid, who might have been hoping to find some consistency by now, did not seem overly troubled by the revolving door of linemates. That’s what the exhibition schedule is for, he said. Plus, with the talent inside the dressing room, pretty much anyone can play with anyone and make it work.
“It can get repetitive when you’re asking about linemates on this team, because they’re all so good,” said McDavid. “When we switch it up, we’re just trying to find different looks and find something that will gel. I think even last game we kind of gelled right away.
“We’ll see what happens with this. Obviously, (MacKinnon) and Drouin are two great players as well.”