Quote:
Originally Posted by MS
He's been OK but I haven't exactly been blown away. Surprised at the rave reviews he's been getting.
He looks pretty good with the puck on his stick, and in the offensive zone. Seems like a smart player with good instincts. Skates pretty well but not great.
But he's been absolutely ventilated defensively in both games he's played. Needs a *ton* of work defending against the rush, and has been exposed almost every time a player has come at him with any speed at all. Looks smaller than listed, as well, and doesn't exactly have a ton of grit.
Now, of course playing against pros is a big step up and if he's a smart player he should be able to adjust over the season in Manitoba. But this player looks a *long* way from the NHL to me, right now.
Decent signing, but I wouldn't call it anything resembling a 'great' signing, yet.
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I agree with this pretty much to a T. I think he is at least 3 or so years away. That said, I am really impressed with his offensive skills that can not be taught. And, like you said, I see that he seems like a very smart player and I almost expect him to adapt. I also fully expect the coaches in Manitoba to greatly improve his defensive positioning and coverage off the rush.
I guess I said it was a great signing due to the fact that he is still young and I fully expect him to develop into a player based on what he has shown.