Colorado Avalanche: 5 Predictions for 2015-16

Oct 16, 2014; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon (29) during warmup prior to game against the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports

Nathan MacKinnon Will Play Center

Ryan O’Reilly out, Carl Soderberg in. That’s the plan, anyway. Soderberg is expected to center the second line, with Gabriel Landeskog and Nathan MacKinnon on his wings. The problem with that: Soderberg may just not be good enough.

Soderberg’s numbers so far have been those of a good third liner, but not more.

It’s not that I think it’s impossible to grow into his role. It’s just that he’s 29 — which is older than many people think he is, based on the fact that he’s only played two NHL season to date — and that’s generally past a player’s prime.

The good part is, MacKinnon may be ready to step into a bigger role. How could I say that after the season he had last year? Well, I just believe a sophomore slump can happen to anyone, and he’s still an outstanding player, which he will prove next season.

Soderberg will start the season at center, but Patrick Roy likes to change things up when they aren’t working. I like MacKinnon on the wing, but Soderberg will be moved down so MacKinnon can play center, once Roy realizes Soderberg isn’t working out on the second line.

Next: Avs Prediction #4