Spacek - Is the right side wrong?

Have seen recent posts regarding Spacek's defensive woes. Some upset with number of turnovers, while others point to his +10 plus/minus as indication of true value. The truth likely more to do with the following article which speaks to the shortage of RHD in the NHL and how difficult it can be to play D on the opposite side of where one has learned his trade.
The move from left to right...


I believe Hamrlik will not be with Habs next year (5.5m cap space) and the result may have Spacek moving back to natural side of ice. If this occurs, look for Spacek to provide a solid #3 D effort and a healthy return on cap hit.

Keep in mind that Habs drafting has provided a potential solution for the current imbalance (LHD - RHD) as the next three Habs D in Hamilton are RH.

Habs mgmt has wisely shown continued support for OB, as he is the only RHD currently on the team.

Habs brass has also shown good judgement and patience with PK - allowing him the opportunity to dominate in the AHL and work on defense. PK will be a regular on the habs blueline next year and certainly has the confidence to deal with the forthcoming media scrutiny.

When Carle was brought up earlier in the year due to D injuries, he was poised and gave a consistent effort. He was returned to the Dogs and was a force until the season ending shoulder injury. Unsure if he will be part of the Habs future or moved in the summer (previously requested trade), but could help Habs RHD balance / cap situation if considered 6th - 7th D next season.

Weber may need more time in the AHL. He was solid the last two Swiss O games (USA / Belarus).

Mara and MAB will likely not be resigned. Mara has been a defensive liability and MAB likely to earn more than entry level $$ elsewhere next season.

Imagine life on Habs D line if both Spacek and Gorges could move back to natural side of ice.

Markov - OB

Spacek - PK

Gorges - Carle

Gill - alternate as 6th / 7th D based on injuries, defensive need.

Upside > Mentor on each pairing, offense/defense balance, lower D cap$$, LHD-RHD solution, eliminate backhanded dumps up the boards on right side, and reducing over the glass penalties on right side.

Downside > Teams dump puck in on inexperienced right side. Gill expensive 7th D. Two Rookie D.



Thoughts?