|
I have always had an issue with physically developed bigger players playing in the CHL over NCAA.
To me those players are better served facing older more mature adults in NCAA hockey rather then mostly underdeveloped kids in the CHL.
Big mature players plowing through smaller players doesn't really help long term development a lot of the time. Exhibit A: Grachev.
One of the reasons Kreider wouldn't really have benefitted. He's bigger, stronger, and faster then most of the players in the Q.
Miller, same thing.
Id prefer Yogan not play CHL, either. Unfortunately he can't go to the AHL yet.
Fogarty will fit well in NCAA with Notre Dame in a year. CCHA is a good place for him to develop as a bigger, stronger, two way player.
CHL benefits guys like Thomas well, where his offensive skills can develop. But they still need to learn to play against more mature players. So their development path could be longer. Thomas hasn't developed any responsible play. He likes to cherry pick alot. Not a dependable guy defensively. And isn't strong enough yet for the Pro game.
Another positive about NCAA is their training. They spend a lot of time in practice and in the weight rooms training.
There are pros and cons for both.
CHL has a longer schedule.
NCAA develops more complete two way players.
|