shmenguin wrote:The U wrote:I like Adams but is he so incredibly great on the PK that he is a virtual lock to play every night. Between Jeffrey, Megna, Vitale, Glass, Tangradi, and others, I'm surprised his name isn't brought up more.
I actually don't want his grit, energy, and "hit everything that moves" skill set taken out of the lineup but I wonder why more people don't want him replaced. He seems like an easy target for those fans wanting their favorite AHL grinder to earn a roster spot.
aside from the philly meltdown, adams has been great on the PK. he's able to excel here because it involves no skill with the puck and limited skating. he's been terrible at even strength over the last 2 years, particularly on the defensive end. during that time, it's just been accepted that on most nights, our 4th line isn't going to offer anything - no scoring of course (which is no big deal, whatever) but also limited forechecking and physicality. we've also consistently seen extended offensive pressure from the other team when they're on the ice. if adams is still in the lineup, it makes a low ceiling even lower on that line. but if he's still a PK whiz, then it's probably worth it.
Adams is a strong penalty killer -- one of the best on the team. His 5-on-5 play has diminished, yes, but not to the extent that many suggest. If you want to say the fourth line lacks physicality, don't blame it on Adams, who averages two hits per game -- only slightly less than Orpik, who plays nearly twice as many minutes. While the hits may not be of the same force, it's unfair to grade physicality based on the quality of hit. Fourth lines are designed to wear on opponents through sustained hitting, bumping, etc. Adams brings that. Glass, too, will bring that, while also providing a bigger frame and a willing pair of fists, if need be. Vitale is small, but he, too, can and will play tenaciously. In general, our fourth line might not be the best in the league, but it's far from the worst, and Adams should and absolutely will play a large role on it.