We've had a few discussions about possible line combinations over the past few weeks, especially with news that Derek Roy could potentially miss at least a month if the season were to start on time. The Stars are going to have a much different look and approach compared to last season and there's a very good chance this could be a significantly improved team.
Part of that new look is a brand new approach to the line combinations, and hopefully one that sees Jamie Benn and Loui Eriksson back together again. Joe Nieuwendyk certainly hinted at such a possibility when signing Jaromir Jagr, and immediately our fingers started twitching at the thought of the Stars having two offensively dangerous yet defensively capable top lines.
Here are my ideal lines to start the season. Once again -- this is when the season starts -- not what they'd ideally look like at the end, when things could be much different.
Now, this isn't much different than what has been discussed before. The big debate I had was how to setup the top two lines to create the most balance. In my heart I want Eriksson and Benn together but I'm wary of putting a line on the ice consisting of three relatively small and speedy forwards.
What about the chance that Roy doesn't start the season with the team? What would your lines be then?