It is probably closer then some are giving them credit for.
Eichel had 45 points in 24 games in the USHL during his pre-draft season.
Matthews had 48 points in 24 games in the USHL during his pre-draft season.
I honestly think that if those two kids weren't American, they would be getting just as much hype and accord as McDavid did as a "generational talent"
Will be interesting to see what Matthews does over a full season in the Swiss league, with no real rookie comparison.
I guess the most recent comparisons will be NHLers playing there during the 2012 lockout:
- Seguin put up 40 points in 29 games the year after having a 67 point NHL season.
- Bergeron had 29 points in 21 games
- Zetterberg had 32 points in 23 games
- Tavares put up 42 points in 28 games
So pretty good numbers from some NHLers who were already established stars in their prime. If Matthews can stay close to or even above a PPG that would be pretty amazing for a kid before his draft year.