Quote:
Originally Posted by Saqe
I´ve followed Florida somewhat closely since they drafted Barkov and he is definately on the squad and playing on first or second line (not sure if Florida has a legit first line). The only real question is whether it´s Gomez or Matthias who plays center on the other top line.
Barkov had immediate chemistry with Fleischman and I´d expect when Huberdeau gets back they would line up together, which could be a really good line. I think Barkov will get every chance to fight for Calder this season if he just stays healthy.
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Yeah, Florida has terrible center depth as well. It's telling that Barkov has been out for a lot of the preseason, is coming from a long injury, just turned 18, and still it's not even debated whether or not he'll be with the Panthers. They talk about getting him ready for the real games, not about evaluating him.
It'll be rough to start the season like that and if it was anyone less mature than Barkov, I wouldn't give good odds. But I agree that he'll do fine. Never seen a readier guy at his age. Lack of quickness might still hinder him at this point but I don't see him struggling with the puck.