In bygone years when the Islanders regularly were making the playoffs, a chunk of success belonged to a trio at the roster-bottom.
The Maven is talking about Matt Martin, Casey Cizikas and Cal Clutterbuck.
After a while, it got tiresome calling the the muckers -- which they were -- checkers -- which they were and occasional scorers, Ditto.
Then someone, somewhere nicknamed the unit "The Identity Line" and, whaddyaknow, it stuck.
After considerable perusal I now have found a Rangers version of The Identity Line.
How about Kaapo Kakko, Jonny Brodzinski and Will Cuylle who, together, play the same kind of robust game as the Isles trio. Here's why:
1. They're always a positive force.
2. They play "Identity" physical.
3. They don't spend too much time in their zone.
4. They're crazy mad forecheckers.
"Their line has been producing well," explains Peter Laviolette, "and they've shown a steady growth. Jonny brings a lot of speed and Kaako protects the puck well. Will can skate and brings physicality. There's a good blend there."
Now we have to come up with a good name other than The Identity Line.
Start with the fact that they work hard and drag opposition lines down while still playing solid defense and producing assorted other positives.
Ah! There it is; I got it already. THE POSITIVES.
The trio are a combined +10, while Tyler Pitlick (-6) struggled, and Alex Lafreniere (-9) and Barclay Goodrow (-8) continue to have lapses.
THE POSITIVES!
It says it all.
But if you have a topper, lemme know since I'm open to challengers!