Originally Posted by Flames Draft Watcher
I think all 3 have the possibility of developing into a 1st line player. Lindholm might be the least risky of the picks IMO as he doesn't have any weaknesses from what I've read but also might have the lowest upside of the three. Monahan still needs to gain leg strength and improve his skating. Most guides think Monahan has 1st line potential. Conroy today was saying Nichushkin hasn't really been taught defense very well.
So you've got the
-big, skilled playmaking centre, good at puck protection, great vision, good shot, good leader, skating still needs a bit of work (Monahan)
-skilled playmaking centre, relentless, two-way, competitive, battles for pucks, good leader, good skating, average size (Lindholm)
-skilled scoring winger, great skating, great size, drives the net, good playmaker, good puck protection, Russian Factor (Nichushkin)
Tough call. I tend to think #1 centres are more important. That said Nichushkin would probably be the best pure talent left at #6.
Monahan seems to be the ideal if the Flames think his skating won't be an issue. Big #1 centre.
Lindholm with his competitiveness, leadership and hockey sense combo seems to fit what I thought the Flames were looking for. Only average size though.
Nichushkin would certainly fit a need as we need size and power on the wings so, so badly as well. I tend to think wingers are slightly less important than centres. I definitely think the Russian Factor has to be a factor for us, especially given our lack of happy Russians on the team that could help his cultural and language transition. His size/talent is impressive, I certainly see why people are drawn to him.
For me heading into the draft I'd rank them:
1. Monahan
2. Lindholm
3. Nichushkin
I prioritize getting a potential #1 centre and minimizing the risk that the player will leave.
If we did draft Nichushkin I'd hope we would acquire a veteran Russian with good character to help him aclimatize.
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