Martin Necas: Is He Really A Center In The NHL?

Hey hockey fans! Let's dive deep into the burning question: Is Martin Necas truly a center in the NHL? This dude's versatility has been a hot topic, and we're here to break it all down, analyzing his skills, stats, and potential future role. So, grab your favorite beverage, and let's get started!

The Versatile Necas: More Than Just a Position

Martin Necas, drafted 12th overall by the Carolina Hurricanes in 2017, has always been touted for his incredible skill set. We're talking about elite skating, silky smooth hands, and a hockey IQ that's off the charts. Right from the get-go, the Canes knew they had a special player on their hands, someone who could potentially be a game-changer. But here's where things get interesting: while Necas possesses the attributes of a top-line center, his deployment and overall impact haven't always aligned with that label.

One of the main reasons for the debate surrounding Necas's position is his adaptability. He's not just a center; he's a winger, too. He can slot in wherever the coach needs him, which is a huge asset for any team. Think about it: injuries happen, lines need shuffling, and having a player like Necas who can seamlessly transition between positions is gold. However, this versatility can also be a double-edged sword. By moving him around, are the Hurricanes maximizing his potential at his strongest position, or are they diluting his impact by spreading him too thin?

Throughout his time with the Hurricanes, Necas has shown flashes of brilliance at center. He's demonstrated the ability to drive play, create scoring chances for his linemates, and even hold his own defensively. But consistency has been the key issue. There have been stretches where he looks like a natural center, controlling the game and making smart decisions with the puck. Then there are other times when he seems less assertive, more hesitant, and perhaps better suited for a wing role. This inconsistency has led many to question whether he truly has the mindset and tenacity required to be a top-tier center in the NHL. Furthermore, the Hurricanes' depth at center, with players like Sebastian Aho and Jordan Staal, has often pushed Necas to the wing, limiting his opportunities to develop and solidify his skills at the position.

Necas’s Strengths as a Potential Center

Let's be real, guys, Necas has some serious talent that makes him a compelling option down the middle. His skating is absolutely electric. He can fly through the neutral zone, creating separation from defenders and generating offensive opportunities. This speed is a huge advantage when it comes to transitioning from defense to offense and creating odd-man rushes. He's also got amazing hands. Necas can dangle through traffic, make quick passes, and finish plays with finesse. This skill set is crucial for a center, who needs to be able to handle the puck in tight spaces and create scoring chances for himself and his linemates.

Beyond the raw skills, Necas also possesses a high hockey IQ. He sees the ice well, anticipates plays, and makes smart decisions with the puck. This hockey sense allows him to be effective in all three zones, contributing both offensively and defensively. He's not just a one-dimensional player; he understands the nuances of the game and can adapt to different situations. However, translating these attributes into consistent success at the center position requires more than just skill and hockey sense. It requires a certain level of assertiveness and leadership, the ability to take control of the game and make those around you better. This is an area where Necas has shown improvement over time, but it's still a work in progress.

Another key aspect of Necas's potential as a center is his playmaking ability. He has a knack for finding his teammates in scoring positions and delivering accurate passes. This is a crucial attribute for a center, who is often responsible for setting up plays and creating scoring chances. He can thread the needle with his passes, finding open teammates in high-danger areas. This ability to create scoring chances for others is a valuable asset, and it's something that the Hurricanes could definitely use more of.

The Challenges Necas Faces at Center

Alright, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. There are definitely some hurdles Necas needs to clear to cement his role as a center. Faceoffs are a big one. In the NHL, winning faceoffs is crucial, especially in key situations like defensive zone starts and power plays. Necas's faceoff percentage has been a consistent area of concern. He needs to improve his technique and strength in the faceoff circle to be a reliable option at center. This is an area where dedicated practice and coaching can make a significant difference. Improving his faceoff skills would not only increase his value as a center but also give his coach more confidence in deploying him in critical situations.

Another challenge for Necas is his defensive game. While he's not a liability in his own zone, he's not exactly a shutdown center either. He needs to be more consistent in his defensive positioning, puck battles, and overall awareness. This is an area where experience and coaching can play a big role. Learning to anticipate plays, read opposing forwards, and use his body effectively in defensive situations are all crucial skills for a center. By improving his defensive game, Necas can become a more complete player and a more valuable asset to the Hurricanes.

Physicality is also something to consider. While Necas isn't afraid to get involved physically, he's not exactly a bruiser either. In the NHL, centers often need to be able to win battles along the boards, protect the puck in tight spaces, and stand their ground against bigger, stronger opponents. Necas needs to continue to develop his strength and physicality to be more effective in these situations. This doesn't mean he needs to become a fighter, but he does need to be able to hold his own in the physical aspects of the game. Strengthening his core and lower body can help him win more battles and maintain possession of the puck.

Stats Don't Lie: Necas by the Numbers

Let's crunch some numbers, guys! Looking at Necas's stats over the years, it's a mixed bag. There are seasons where his offensive production is impressive, showcasing his potential as a top-six forward. But there are also seasons where his numbers dip, raising questions about his consistency and overall impact. His plus-minus rating has also fluctuated, reflecting his performance in both the offensive and defensive zones. Analyzing these stats in the context of his linemates, ice time, and overall team performance can provide a more nuanced understanding of his contributions.

One key statistic to watch is his shooting percentage. When Necas is scoring goals, his shooting percentage tends to be higher, indicating that he's taking quality shots and capitalizing on his opportunities. However, when his shooting percentage dips, it suggests that he may be struggling to find open lanes or that his shot selection may not be optimal. This is an area where coaching and video analysis can help him improve his shot selection and increase his scoring efficiency.

Another important metric is his Corsi and Fenwick numbers, which measure shot attempts for and against when he's on the ice. These advanced stats can provide insights into his overall impact on puck possession and offensive zone time. A positive Corsi or Fenwick rating suggests that his team is generating more shot attempts than their opponents when he's on the ice, indicating that he's contributing to offensive pressure. However, a negative rating suggests that his team is spending more time in their own zone when he's on the ice, indicating that he may need to improve his defensive game or his ability to transition the puck out of his own zone.

The Verdict: Center, Winger, or Both?

So, what's the final verdict? Is Martin Necas a center? Well, it's complicated. He's got the skill set, the speed, and the hockey IQ to play the position effectively. But he needs to improve his faceoff skills, defensive game, and overall consistency to truly thrive as a center in the NHL. The Hurricanes need to decide if they're willing to invest the time and resources to develop him into a full-time center, or if they see him as a more valuable asset on the wing.

Ultimately, Necas's future role will depend on a variety of factors, including his own development, the Hurricanes' roster composition, and the team's overall strategy. Whether he ends up as a center, a winger, or a combination of both, one thing is for sure: Martin Necas is a talented player with a bright future in the NHL. His versatility and skill set make him a valuable asset to the Hurricanes, and his continued development will be key to the team's success in the years to come. So, keep an eye on Necas, guys. He's got the potential to be a star, and it's going to be exciting to see how his career unfolds.