Quote:
Originally Posted by Micklebot
Well, he did have his best statistical season in 08/09 (66gp, 4 G, 13 A, 17 pts) when Columbus was the 7th seed in the west. He was paired with Tyutin (on the 2nd pair?) 64% of his shifts at ES likely due to injuries to Klesla.
His junior and AHL teams both had success, Particularly the knights, so its not like he hasn't excelled in a winning environment, albeit at a lower level.
I think so long as your expectations of him are tempered (ie don't expect him to be guaranteed a spot beside Karlsson and score 30pts) he shouldn't really be included in the "has a lot to prove" category.
Edit: though I agree with your overall sentiment of not wanting to move Gonchar, as it would certainly move him into a position where he wouldn't be a proven commodity.
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ya that is more or less what i meant. Methot has proven to be a capable NHLer , but with lack of depth on D i think we need more then just capable. Obviously we will not know until the season starts and I hope he turns into a suitable season long top 4 replacement for Kuba( different styles , but equal in effectiveness and minutes played) but he still has to prove he can , if he cant cowen and Gonchar will have to play more then planned.