Quote:
Originally Posted by Cali Flames Fan
I didn't realize this was what he was supposed to be? I don't think I've ever seen any player drafted in the 20's of round 1 and tabbed as a long term project expected to become a franchise player.
IMO, Jankowski projects to be a solid all-around playmaking skilled center man. If he reaches his potential I'm thinking career 2nd line center. Think Craig Janney or Cory Stillman? He's still got work to do though and could end up being Krys Kolanos.
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Actually, he does indeed project to be a franchise player by this organization. Weisbrod compares him to Nieuwendyk actually.
I don't think the argument is really his ceiling - his ceiling is a #1 center. The argument is how likely he will hit that ceiling, and what is his floor. He is a project, and he will require a couple years at least in the NCAA (perhaps even an additional 3 giving him all 4 seasons) before he turns pro.
Personally I am really high on Jankowski as I see him being this team's franchise center after he develops, but I can also understand why many people feel he will be underwhelming. I guess this is the exact definition of a project - will take a few years to see where he is, whereas most people see Monahan as a 1st line center with 'great' 2nd line center downside. I think Jankowski's offensive upside is bigger than Monahan's, but it can be argued now and also can be proven completely false in time.
I think Jankowski's most glaring weaknesses as a prospect right now are his strength (though it is GREAT to see that he is putting weight on - only a matter of time before he corrects this) and his aggression (or at least his assertiveness) on the ice. He needs to get hungrier out there, and I think he is much too passive.
Edit: I don't think he makes the NHL if he doesn't learn to at least become more assertive on the ice. I can understand why he is hesitant - maybe he still not used to his frame - but he should have been one of the more aggressive prospects in the Flames camp scrimmages, but rather he seemed to be one of the most passive. I hope he picks it up a notch for this team Canada camp, and a few notches in the NCAA this upcoming season.