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Tomas Plekanec has become accustomed to adjusting to new linemates.

The veteran centre is pencilled in on the second line with newcomers Andrew Shaw and Alexander Radulov, and he’s hoping that the trio will be together for a long run.

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“You never know,” said Plekanec. “If we start like that, it’s going to be exciting and I hope it works out right away.”

A succession of coaches have recognized Plekanec’s ability to play with a variety of linemates and that hasn’t always worked to his advantage. The proposed line provides him with a skilled sniper in Radulov along with Shaw, a gritty winger who is capable of scoring 15 to 20 goals.

Plekanec has faced Radulov on numerous occasions in international competition and described him as a “great player with great skill. He skates well, fast. He’ll definitely help us.”

Plekanec and Max Pacioretty rejoined their teammates this week after participating in the World Cup of Hockey. They joined their teammates on the ice for the first time on Tuesday and are expected to play in Thursday’s exhibition game against the Ottawa Senators.