Oiler fans for years have complained, there is no trigger man for Hemsky. In the Ryan Smyth years Hemsky Horcoff and Smith were a decent and sometimes potent line. With the loss of a true trigger man or even someone who can stand in front of the goalie Hemsky has struggled to find success with his linemates.
It is not Hemsky’s fault it just is what it is. He is not going to be the guy that stirs the drink known as the Oilers offence. He could however go to the next level if he is partnered with a pure crash into them take no prisoners type of winger, who just happens to have soft, fast, hands.
Yes you guessed it, Taylor Hall is the man in question. Hall has an ability to see the game in a way Hemsky just seemingly cannot. Where Hemsky looks for the good pass or skillful dodge Hall seeks the net first other things later.
While having a good centre who can take and win face offs is important having you most skilled forward playing centre in the modern game can at times be a hindrance. Centres need to have a mentality to help on defence when trouble comes. Your Wayne Gretzky type of centre is not as helpful as your Mark Messier dirty areas type.
So having two skilled wingers with a gritty defence forward, Shawn Horcoff, at centre works for the most part. I actually think that Hall would slip right into the Ryan Smyth roll being able to bring the scoring touch from somewhere farther than your average 2 feet.
The other thing I think Hall brings is a brash sense of attitude and will to win is something that has been lacking on the Oilers for a while. Having your best forward being your most competitive, meaning he is willing to set the example not be a part of the crowd, is important to any team.
In my opinion Hall brings that and whole lot more. Tambellini for the Oilers sake and long term health of the team needs to bring in a sniper. Just call me a member of team Hall.
Tags: NHL Draft, Oilers, Taylor Hall
