That being, to be the effective shutdown centre they so desperately needed.
So, while his transition got off to an initially rocky start, the ensuing 180 the 35-year-old has pulled over the last two weeks is nothing short of astounding. Seemingly, all it took for Plekanec to become his former self again was an exodus from Leo Komarov and an increase in responsibility.
Now, after six games of playoff hockey, Plekanec has finally emerged as the player Lou Lamoriello & Co. dealt a second-round pick for. The type of player a general manager specifically acquires for situations like Game Sevens.