Quote:
Originally Posted by InformTheMasses
Great question, and a nice problem to have. Still way too early to tell. I think all of the guys you list here are multiple years away from making it to the Islanders. So a lot will be determined in the years to come. I have seen Pelech and Pedan the most. What I will tell you is Pelech is a LOCK to make the NHL. Not only is he a true shut-down defenceman, he is as tough as they come and very solid. He can throw some thunderous checks. His offense has been a surprise and strictly a product of his ability to shoot the puck accurately on net throw screens and block attempts, puck seemingly always gets through, it's not a 'howitzer' by any means, but its decent.
I want Pokka to come across the pond next year and play in BPort if at all possible. He has played a couple of seasons now in SM-Liga against men and from all accounts, has not only handled himself well but has grown a lot as a player. I've gone from being 'not so enthusiastic' about this pick to VERY excited about his potential in a short amount of time. I think if he comes over next year learns the language and the smaller rinks he could be 12-18 months away from having a shot at the big club. He would also STILL be eligible to play in his 3rd WJC U20 next season, and will no doubt be a leader and huge contributor next season.
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Thank you much for this specific answer, but even more so for all the videos and info you've been posting in this thread the past few weeks or so. I haven't gotten around to checking out the videos (except for that one of Pedan making that sick move near the blue line). Can you provide your youtube link once again? I'd like to take a look at a bunch of the videos when I have a bit of time.
As for your answer, pretty much what I expected. I'm fully aware all these kids are 2+ years away (unfortunately). I was just wondering if any of these kids was more likely to "shock these hf boards" with an amazing camp either in 2013-2014 or 2014-2015 and make the team ahead of schedule, who would it be? Believe me, I don't want to see any of these kids rushed. It was embarrassing watching Nino last year. But if any of these kids were going to 'knock the door down" and prove they were ready a bit ahead of schedule, I was wondering who would step up first. It's great to hear how high you are on Pelech. He seems very 'safe' and that isn't a bad thing. If Pelech is the safest of the group, I believe Pedan and/or Mayfield have the best chance of being the "home run" of the group. I am really rooting for Pedan and Mayfield, as they most likely have the highest upside and the more 6'4+ defensemen we have, the better. If Pedan's biggest problem is taking stupid penalties, well then I really like his chances. Good coaching and maturity can straighten out those mental errors, but his size, skating, natural ability and toughness cannot be taught (same goes for Mayfield).
Will Pelech and Pedan be eligible for Bridgeport next season or maybe even at the end of this season for the playoff stretch?? I am assuming Kichton will be signed as well. By the end of this year or beginning of next year, I believe Pedan, Pelech and Kichton will be in Bridgeport. Considering De Haan, Donovan, Ness, Landry, Wishart and now Finley are already there, spots on the blue line will be getting tight in Bridgeport very soon. It wouldn't surprise me in the least bit if Mayfield is signed after this NCAA season and sent to Bridgeport as well (ala Donovan several years back and Nelson last year). Then it would be REALLY crowded down there. Donovan or De Haan better make the big club soon. We're running out of spots on the blue line.