Quote:
Originally Posted by we want cup
Obviously we'd all like him to top out much higher, but if he can be a 10-goal version of Sjostrom, then he'd certainly be a useful player. I'll keep my fingers crossed for a 20 goal Sjostrom, though.  |
Some data points on Nieves;
He will put on ~ 20 more pounds in next couple years...in family genetics...so his frame will be much more complete soon.
Feedback from Rangers development camp was strong - scored a highlight goal and beautiful assist...certainly displayed strong hockey sense around prospects, which are at a much higher level of skill than he has played with at Prep and USHL
USHL performance...In 13 games his stats per game were as good as the best 94' players...without benefit of acclimation...So if that is his performance with limited exposure/time to adjust, imagine what he would have done for a full season.
He is a natural playmaker, but has a very solid shot which he will utilize more now that he will be around players who will pass him the puck versus playing with players who a) did not know how to move the puck to him and b) mishandled passes that skilled players know how to finish.
Vision is exceptional...this will become apparent as he gets time with players at U of M and is surrounded by players who are positionally better than the players he was with the last 2 years.
Combine his eventual size with the better talent around him and it's a scary proposition. In 2 - 3 years I think it will be interesting to revisit this whole discussion.
