Georges Laraque Warns Canadiens to Be Careful With Demidov's Linemates
On BPM Sports, Georges Laraque didn't mince words regarding how the Montreal Canadiens might use Ivan Demidov.
The former NHL enforcer warned the organization against the idea of placing Demidov on a line with Patrik Laine and Kirby Dach.
According to him, such a combination could seriously hinder the Russian player's development.
Laraque was particularly critical of Laine, consistent with his recent comments.
He noted that Laine's performance and skating ability have significantly declined over the seasons.
"If Demidov plays with Dach and Laine, he's going to struggle. When I said Laine would play 40 games this year, many laughed. But honestly, do you think Demidov will progress alongside a Laine who no longer skates well?" - Georges Laraque
Georges Laraque Concerned About Patrik Laine and Kirby Dach's Role With Ivan Demidov
For Laraque, Laine's only real asset remains his power-play shot.
"Laine will probably score 20 power-play goals, but he doesn't belong in the top 6. And if you don't put him in your top 6, you also can't put him on a defensive line because he doesn't hit." - Georges Laraque
Here's the full clip:
Kirby Dach, for his part, is not spared from criticism either.
According to Laraque, Dach's current form and physical condition are far from the level required for a top-line center.
He believes giving Demidov to Dach in such a context would be risky.
For my part, I think Laraque isn't entirely wrong. He was very direct (true to his style), but he made some valid points.
Demidov needs an environment that allows him to thrive, and I don't believe a slow Laine and a developing Dach are the best linemates for him.
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