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

Is Martin Necas truly a center? That's the question on many hockey fans' minds, especially as we analyze his role and performance in the NHL. Necas, a dynamic player with undeniable skill, has showcased his abilities in various positions, but the center position is where the spotlight shines brightest. In this article, we'll dive deep into Necas's career, dissect his strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately determine if he fits the mold of a true NHL center.

The Versatility of Martin Necas

Martin Necas is renowned for his versatility, a trait that has allowed him to adapt to different roles within a team. His ability to play both as a winger and a center adds significant value, providing coaches with flexibility in line combinations and strategic deployments. This adaptability is a double-edged sword, however. While it increases his utility, it also raises questions about his optimal position. Has Necas truly found his niche as a center, or is he better suited for the wing? The answer isn't straightforward, as his performance varies depending on the team's needs and the specific dynamics of his linemates.

Necas's early career saw him transition between positions, often filling gaps where needed. This experience has undoubtedly broadened his understanding of the game and enhanced his overall skill set. However, it also means that he hasn't always had the consistency of playing in one fixed role. For a player to truly excel as a center, a consistent run in that position is crucial. It allows them to develop the necessary chemistry with their linemates, refine their face-off skills, and master the defensive responsibilities that come with the role.

Moreover, the mental aspect of playing center is significant. Centers are often seen as leaders on the ice, responsible for reading the play, making quick decisions, and directing the flow of the game. While Necas has shown flashes of brilliance in these areas, the question remains whether he possesses the consistent hockey IQ and leadership qualities to thrive as a top-line center in the NHL. His versatility is an asset, but it also means he hasn't always had the chance to fully develop the specific attributes required for the center position. So, when we talk about Martin Necas, understanding his versatile background is key to assessing his potential as a center.

Strengths as a Center

When evaluating Martin Necas as a center, it's essential to highlight his key strengths that make him a viable option for the position. One of his most significant assets is his exceptional skating ability. Necas possesses electrifying speed and agility, allowing him to create scoring chances and disrupt opposing plays. His ability to accelerate quickly and maintain high speeds makes him a threat in transition, both offensively and defensively. This skating prowess is particularly valuable in the modern NHL, where speed and quickness are paramount.

Another strength is his playmaking ability. Necas has a knack for finding open teammates and delivering accurate passes. His vision on the ice allows him to identify scoring opportunities and make smart decisions with the puck. This playmaking ability is crucial for a center, as they are often tasked with setting up their linemates and driving offensive production. His creativity and willingness to try unconventional passes can catch opponents off guard and create high-danger scoring chances.

Furthermore, Necas has shown a willingness to engage physically and compete for pucks. While he may not be the biggest player, he uses his speed and agility to win battles along the boards and in the corners. This tenacity is essential for a center, who often has to win face-offs and battle for possession in key areas of the ice. His competitiveness and determination make him a valuable asset in all three zones. Overall, Martin Necas's strengths, including his skating, playmaking, and competitiveness, make him a compelling option at the center position. He brings a dynamic skill set that can elevate his team's offensive capabilities.

Weaknesses as a Center

Despite his strengths, Martin Necas also has areas of his game that need improvement if he is to solidify his role as a center in the NHL. One of the most notable weaknesses is his face-off percentage. Winning face-offs is a crucial aspect of playing center, as it directly impacts puck possession and territorial control. Necas has struggled in this area, often losing key face-offs that can put his team at a disadvantage. Improving his face-off skills would significantly enhance his value as a center.

Another area for improvement is his defensive consistency. While he has shown flashes of defensive awareness, Necas sometimes struggles with positioning and decision-making in his own zone. He needs to be more disciplined in tracking his assignments and providing support to his defensemen. A consistent defensive presence is essential for a center, who is often tasked with shutting down the opposition's top players. This is especially crucial in late-game situations when protecting a lead.

Additionally, Necas could benefit from adding more physicality to his game. While he is willing to compete for pucks, he is not known for his physical presence. Adding more strength and aggression would make him more difficult to play against and increase his effectiveness in puck battles. This doesn't mean he needs to become an enforcer, but rather that he needs to use his body more effectively to protect the puck and create space for himself and his teammates. Addressing these weaknesses is crucial for Martin Necas to reach his full potential as a center.

Comparing Necas to Other Centers

To truly evaluate Martin Necas as a center, it's helpful to compare him to other players who excel in that position. When you look at the top centers in the NHL, like Connor McDavid, Sidney Crosby, and Auston Matthews, you'll notice several common traits. These players possess exceptional skill, hockey IQ, and leadership qualities. They consistently win face-offs, drive offensive production, and excel in all three zones. While Necas has shown flashes of brilliance, he has yet to reach the level of consistency and dominance of these elite centers.

Compared to more defensively-minded centers, Necas's defensive game still needs refinement. Players like Patrice Bergeron and Anze Kopitar are renowned for their defensive prowess, consistently shutting down the opposition's top lines and winning crucial defensive-zone face-offs. Necas needs to improve his defensive awareness and positioning to match the effectiveness of these players. He can learn from their example by focusing on simplifying his game in the defensive zone and prioritizing puck management.

However, Necas does possess certain attributes that make him unique among NHL centers. His exceptional speed and agility set him apart, allowing him to create scoring chances and disrupt opposing plays in ways that many other centers cannot. He also has a creative flair and willingness to try unconventional plays, which can catch opponents off guard. While he may not be a carbon copy of any particular center, Necas has the potential to carve out his own niche as a dynamic and exciting player. Ultimately, Martin Necas needs to blend his unique attributes with the fundamental skills and qualities of a top-tier center to reach his full potential.

The Future of Necas as a Center

What does the future hold for Martin Necas as a center? The answer depends on several factors, including his continued development, the team's needs, and his own commitment to improving in key areas. If he can address his weaknesses in face-offs, defensive consistency, and physicality, he has the potential to become a highly effective center in the NHL. His speed, playmaking ability, and competitiveness are already valuable assets that can contribute to his team's success.

It's also important to consider the team's role in his development. Necas needs to be given consistent opportunities to play center, with linemates who complement his skill set. A supportive coaching staff can provide him with the guidance and feedback he needs to refine his game and reach his full potential. Patience and consistency are key, as it takes time for a player to fully develop into a top-line center.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to play Necas primarily as a center or a winger will depend on the team's overall strategy and the specific needs of the lineup. However, it's clear that Necas has the potential to excel at the center position if he continues to work hard and develop his game. With his dynamic skill set and unwavering determination, Martin Necas has a bright future ahead of him, whether he plays center or wing. The key is for him to continue honing his skills and adapting to the demands of the NHL, and to stay hungry for success.