With the departure of Phillip Danault to California (to the Los Angeles Kings), the Montreal Canadiens are left with a hole on the center line. Who will be the 2nd pivot used behind Nick Suzuki? Jesperi Kotkaniemi comes to mind, but he hasn't shown that he can do the job consistently. That said, if Marc Bergevin is unable to get a center on the free agent market or via a trade, there may be an alternative with the CH: Jonathan Drouin.
Here are two reasons why we believe this solution remains credible and logical. First, it was under Dominique Ducharme's leadership with the Halifax Mooseheads that Drouin played as a center. Secondly, when he joined the Montreal Canadiens, in return for Mikhail Sergachev, he played the entire 2017-18 season at the pivot position. That year, he took 1051 faceoffs, only 21 fewer than Tomas Plekanec.
He concluded that season with an efficiency percentage of 42.5%, which is not so bad under the circumstances. This facet can be corrected and improved, especially since Drouin is a young man who likes to improve on his shortcomings to become the best player he can be. If he takes this position, he could find Mike Hoffman and Josh Anderson on his wings, which could form a very dynamic and complete trio. A masterful passer, a maverick and a train that plays overly physical.
There is some speculation, especially since Drouin has been out of the lineup since April 22, but with the organization indicating that he would be back and the young man being seen in public this week, it is understandable that his spirits are high. He has started training again to prepare for the 2021-22 campaign, which will be propelled in mid-October.
