Predicting the San Jose Sharks’ Forward Lines and Stats

Second Line

Dec 3, 2013; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; San Jose Sharks forward Patrick Marleau (12) congratulates forward Logan Couture (39) after Couture scored an empty net goal against the Toronto Maple Leafs during the third period at the Air Canada Centre. San Jose defeated Toronto 4-2. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

RW – #57 – Tommy Wingels – 79 GP – 21 G – 14 A – 35 P – +8 – 47 PIM

C – #39 – Logan Couture – 82 GP – 37 G – 41 A – 78 P – +19 – 36 PIM

LW – #12 – Patrick Marleau – 82 GP – 30 G – 11 A – 41 P – +16 – 8 PIM

Why this works: Couture and Marleau have been together for a while now. They have played with Ryane Clowe, Raffi Torres, Martin Havlat, and Matt Nieto, but I really think that Wingels would go great on this line to start the season.

This is a very well-balanced line. Couture brings that all around ability, he can pass, shoot, and defend. Marleau brings that pure scoring ability along with the ability to defend. Lastly, Wingels brings the physical aspect to this line, which is what really sets this line up to succeed. Of course, Wingels also brings a defensive side to the game like Couture and Marleau.

Nieto could also get a fair shot at that RW position, it just all depends on how their training camps go. Nieto would bring a lot of speed to this line, which would not be a bad thing, but the physicality of Wingels may be a little better.