Chemistry Between Gaborik and Richards Isn’t a Given

The most interesting thing about the Brad Richards signing in New York is the assumption that he’ll click with Marian Gaborik. The assumption is so prevalent, the only question people seem to be asking is who’ll play left wing on the Richards-Gaborik line. But I think we need to take a step back. Because just because two players are great doesn’t mean they’ll necessarily be great together. Especially with a player like Gaborik, who seems to have some idiosyncrasies. For instance, he’s only shows some chemistry, as a Ranger, with the elderly and unsigned Vinny Prospal, the enigmatic Erik Christensen, and the abrasive Sean Avery. I’m not sure Richards fits the playing profile of any of those players. The NHL is littered with teams constantly searching for centers to play with talented wingers. The Calgary Flames have struggled with this. The Columbus Blue Jackets have struggled with this. And, since Michael Nylander left a few seasons back, the...