I don’t believe anyone could disagree with the idea that Hecht needs to play considerably better this year. However, I can’t see Grier helping him much at all on the score sheet. Don’t mistake what kind of player Grier is, and don’t make the mistake of thinking that Grier-Hecht-Gaustad is anything close to Grier-Drury-Hecht. Both Grier and Gaustad in the last several years have been on average 25 point a year players…. Hecht’s career low 27 points last year is a normal year for both Grier and Gaustad. How can you honestly think Grier is going to put Hecht back in the 40-50 point bracket where he should be? Now I’m not saying Grier can’t make Hecht a better player. One of the biggest problems I had with Hecht last year was his defense. Hecht has a reputation for being a great 2-way player, but he certainly was not that last year. He needs to get back to being a plus player and i think Grier can help him do that, but lets not get carried away. Grier is a solid 3rd or 4th liner, not an offensive spark. With Grier, Hecht will most likely stay within 35 points, but as long as they can be a consistent line that can be called on in key situations, they’ll be doing their job.

If Hecht’s line isn’t putting up points, they can still be effective if they play shut down D. If it turns out to be Hecht Gaustad Grier, they won’t be looked at for too many goals but will need to shut down other teams top offensive threats.
Lets not forget that Hecht was moved to center last year. I don’t think he looked good at all there, and let’s be honest, the difference can be huge. As far as positioning goes, knowing your role, a switch back to the wing may help Hecht’s off the puck play, and if that improves, he can contribute to a top defensive, and maybe, a solid 2-way line.

For sure, that is what I am looking for in him this year. Having him on the wing should definitely help him out. I think we all looked at Hecht as a guy that could step up, be a consistent 2-way player, and be a leader for this club. Unfortunately I think he showed us last year that he is not the guy that will flourish in that leadership position. I think Grier can help him out by taking a little bit of that pressure off of him. Hopefully that lack of attention will allow him to get his 2-way game back. I can’t see him getting his points up much without a guy like Drury to center him, but as long as he is a solid plus player, that will suffice.