I think the Bruins have a few things that need to be sorted out in the final 19 regular season games.
First and foremost, they need to figure out who the 9th guy is in the top 9. We’ve got 8 clearly defined- 37,63,88,46,74,90,13 and 43. We’re not sure who that 9th guy is. Right now it is Backes. Can he keep up, or do they need to bring Cehlarik or some other Providence kid up? Try Stempniak?
Secondly, I’d try as many line combos as possible. I agree with Dummy Hoy that when we get to the Toronto series, Pastrnak will be back on the top line until Toronto proves they can handle / slow that line down to some extent. I’d like to see Heinen get some more time with Krejci and DeBrusk. They played together a bit early on in the season, with good results. 141 minutes at 5x5, 55% CF, 51% SCF, 62% HDCF, goals were 5-2. Maybe that line can finish a bit better with Heinen being rejuvenated. He’s had 8 points in 9 games on the top line so he should have some confidence. Heinen on the Krejci line would allow them to build a 3rd line with Johansson and Coyle. The question is the 3rd piece, which they have to figure out.
Cliff notes version: As of now, my ideal playoff top 9 would be:
Marchand - Bergeron - Pastrnak
DeBrusk - Krejci - Heinen
Johansson - Coyle - XXX