Boston Bruins: 3 Reasons Why the B’s Need to Rebuild Their 4th Line
Dec 29, 2014; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Bruins left wing Daniel Paille (20) and center Gregory Campbell (11) keep the puck away from Detroit Red Wings right wing Tomas Jurco (26) during the first period at TD Banknorth Garden. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
The Merlot line that we have all grown to love is no more. Gone is the grit, toughness and energy that made this once fan-favorite line a special weapon for the Bruins. When Shawn Thornton exited the team last summer after seven years with the B’s, many people expected to see a positive change in the 4th line that would increase their production and make the Bruins offense even stronger. But it seems as though getting rid of Thornton may have had the opposite effect.
As a longtime Campbell fan – always root for the underdog – it is very difficult to say this, but it is time to give the 4th line a complete overhaul. With Campbell and Paille up for contract renewals this off season and both heading towards their worst season yet, the coaching staff will need to look elsewhere to boost the lineup with some depth players. After contributing only a small fraction of points and too many turnovers, this will be an easy decision to make.
Zero Production
As a group, the 4th line, consisting of Gregory Campbell, Daniel Paille and Craig Cunningham, has only produced a total of 19 points this season. Although the line is not known for their offensive play, having less than 20 points combined this late in the season is pitiful. If you add in Jordan Caron who has been a healthy scratch for most of his active season, you’re still left with 19 points and far too many worthless penalty minutes. For a team that runs all four lines, the points need to come from every player if they are going to keep a playoff spot.
Campbell and Paille have shown some improvement over the past few weeks and Campbell has displayed his willingness to drop the gloves when needed, but 8 points in 45 or 50 games is not going to hold a spot on the team for either of the two 4th liners.
Next: Lack of Skill