Here’s an excerpt from a Hockeybuzz.com article by Steven Hindle who ranks Eastern conference teams according to their strength at the center position. I’m not sure I agree with some of his rankings (i.e- The Crosby/Malkin/Staal trio ranked behind Plekanecs/Koivu/Lang and Backstrom/Fedorov/Nylander?????…..I’m not to sure of that!!)
1. Washington:
Backstrom Fedorov Nylander
-Youth coupled with supreme veteran leadership and talent. Best mix of vet and talent in the East if healthy. With the dearth of scoring wingers available(including the best player in the game, Mr.MVP), scoring should not be a problem this year.
2. Montreal:
Plekanecs Koivu Lang
– Disturbingly solid. All facets of the game are covered with these centermen. Sundin would have put them well over the top, Lang provides a stable 50 pt. presence on the 3rd line, while Plekanecs will center perhaps the best line in the East and Koivu gets a new sniper to play with.
3. Pittsburgh:
Crosby Malkin Staal
– Easily the most talented duo in the league, Crosby and Malkin are 2 of the top 3 players in the league and are teaching all the know to another youngster in Jordan Staal. The only thing they are missing is a quality veteran presence down the middle, otherwise, best 2 centermen in the game(?).