Obviously Radek Bonk is mired in a brutal scoring slump and the lock-out, change of team, different role and new rules have obviously impacted his play (and his confidence) negatively.  Although, I think BG and CJ are generally happy so far with Bonk’s contribution to the team.  However, given the fact that Radek centres the third line, 50-to-80 points is clearly not a realistic expectation…and no-way does BG even think that this is likely! 

In fact, Bonk’s primary goal as a Hab so far has been to shutdown the opposing team’s “problem” line…granted, he hasn’t chipped in offensively at all YET. 

I still stand-by my prediction though that no-way will he be relegated to 3rd line duty (behind Saku and Ribs) beyond mid-November (and certainly not ice-time wise).  History has shown over-and-over that either injury and/or inconsistency and/or inability makes this inevitable!  Radek’s skill-set just plain surpasses 3rd line duty on the existing roster…simple as that!    

It is time though for Radek to step-up his play and contribute beyond providing the option of a big body to CJ.

Bonk needs to get a few pucks on net…a shift or two on the PP…continued acceptance of being on the 3rd line (while the likes of Mikey Mouse float through most nights with a free pass)…and, most of all, some more confidence.  It will come! The 20,000 coaches in the Bell Centre will demand it soon…and he is too much of a talent not to respond!    

The really good thing about having Bonk on this team is that when he starts racking up points (and he will once he gels a bit more with his current “defense first” line-mates) this guy can easily slot in on ANY line without missing a beat.    

And, after-all, no other centre on the roster has been able to provide what he is capable of (offensive threat for any line without defensive liability for any line)…or BG would not have had to give up on a future blue-chip starter to acquire him!

(This guy is not my ideal choice either…but at the time he was the right guy at a tolerable price!)     

 I great post and response by Ando!!

 I also remember a quote in pre-season by CJ that the Habs have different expectations than Sens on Bonk and that high offensive numbers are not expected but rather a strong defensive game while chipping in the odd point are. I don't remember a specific number of points given like 50-60?

 Bonk, at this time is very important to the team and plays his roll perfect. I recall CJ playing third line against Bergeron line in third period that made all the difference in the world and gave first line tons of chances. Bonk is a much better player than Juneau! Can skate, shoot, see the ice better and use his big body better!

 This is the best third line in hockey right now!

 If CJ has to move Bonk to an upper line, it would be because of injury and the Habs won't be better off because of it ! Sure Bonk can replace Saku and Ribs but the lack of depth at center would hurt Habs chemistry.

 My though is keep Bonk on third and replace Ribs by someone else and demote Ribs to fourth line. The chemistry of Bonk, Bulis, and Sunny are one of the best defensive lines in the league and will be the best by season's end if left alone.

right right right!!! Higgins should get a crack at the second line.  He is a first round draft pick with  potential, he plays with grit/heart, proven he can produce offensively in ever league he has played in, and is not afraid to take a hit. It would be unfortunate to let him spirral downward in terms of skill left on the fourth line getting 6-5mn per game. What a waste of his potential.

Meanwhile we play Ribero on that line who will never be all that good( the best he will ever do in the NHL is get 70 points while playing limp wristed hockey and no defensive abilities). Why waste our time with him?? The time is now to recognize gamers like Higgins/plek/perez/komi and let them play. the dead weight like Dags and Ribero( hainsey as well) should be selling popcorn or playing for the bluejackets....who???