Quote:
Originally Posted by thymebalm
Before we both slip into condescension, I've been following the Heat since the came to my neck of the woods so I've got a pretty decent idea of what Breen bring to the table. I've also watched my fair share of AHL and NHL hockey over the past 3 seasons.
You are right, it would've been silly of me to judge him based on 19 of NHL hockey. Thank goodness I'm not. I've watched him his whole pro career.
He has all the typical knocks against him that big career AHL defenders tend to have;
-Lacks NHL foot speed
-Lacks NHL level offensive creativity
-Lacks mobility with the puck
-Not an explosive checker
He's a great AHL stay-at-home defender, and last season was a very big season for him in terms of stepping up his all around game. Playfair liked him, Ward uses him too, but there is something missing from his game that would allow him to translate to the NHL.
Since turning pro he has played 208 AHL games all with the Heat, and has a career points total of 8-19-27 with 143pims and a -12.
Just for a comparison of what a top-4 NHL type defender might put up, with the same team, Brodie played 115GP and put up 57 points.
That's double the scoring in half the games. That says upside to me.
He is becoming a smarter player, but I don't really believe he has NHL upside. Maybe I'm wrong, but if you don't like Shane O'Brien or Butler.... I don't think you'll be pleased with Breen.
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You're comparing his production to Brodie's?
It is not at all uncommon for big defensemen to develop late.
And by the way, Chara had 17 points in 71 career AHL games. And he never had a 20 point season (either league) until he was 25.
Not comparing him to Chara, just saying let it play out.