Kesler's return

[Fast Tony DeNiro]

Since when is Kesler a "Small Power Forward"??

Ever since he's played most of his career under or just at 200 pounds. He's not exactly Brendan Shanahan or Eric Lindros.

You know Thornton is 4 years older than Kesler is right?
Kesler would have the immediate impact of reducing Toews defensive responsibilities. Thornton not so much.

Yep, I do realize the age gap. But Thornton has missed 4 games since the 2005 lockout, so at least you can be relatively sure he's gonna play. And although Jumbo may not be a defensive stopper, he can play a 200 foot game just fine, and his offensive game is head and shoulders above Kesler's. And either way, so what? Let Toews handle the tough matchups, I don't care about his point totals and he can handle those matchups just fine.

[Daydream Nation]

Ever since he's played most of his career under or just at 200 pounds. He's not exactly Brendan Shanahan or Eric Lindros.



Yep, I do realize the age gap. But Thornton has missed 4 games since the 2005 lockout, so at least you can be relatively sure he's gonna play. And although Jumbo may not be a defensive stopper, he can play a 200 foot game just fine, and his offensive game is head and shoulders above Kesler's. And either way, so what? Let Toews handle the tough matchups, I don't care about his point totals and he can handle those matchups just fine.

Well said. I'd rather have 2-3 seasons of Thornton over whatever Kesler would give you. I like the thought of Kesler in a Pens sweater.