I really like the Poirier pick over Shinkaruk: better size, better speed, better shot, and much grittier. In other words, better NHL skill set. And his progression, vs Shinkaruk's regression, is a huge deal.
Having said that, I think fans' expectations for Poirier may be a bit high. First of all, I don't think there is any chance he makes the team next year - but that really is neither here nor there at the end of the day.
Where I think expectations are overshot a bit are in his ceiling. I don't see a 1st line winger, personally. If his PPG were more 1.6 - 1.8 or so, I might have more optimism on that front, but really, I see him as a solid, two-way, 20-25 goal guy. In other words, a really good 2nd/3rd liner. But not an elite player.
Edit: which, to be clear, would be AWESOME
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