Good quick little write-up on Gerbe who's a similar prospect, the issue with injuries is the most interesting:
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Time to evaluate Nate Gerbe, an absolute stud prospect six years ago but who quickly fell out of favor. As we've seen time and again, these 5-8 (or less, Gerbe is 5-5) players take years to get going. In every case (unless we're talking a first-round pick), the players are 26 or 27 before they take off (Sullivan, St. Louis). Gerbe is now 26. But his injury history has stunted his development so I'd be shocked if he ever did that 70-point thing. From 2009 to 2012 he missed at least 18 games per season due to injury. So with all that in mind, looking at his numbers now I'm pretty happy. Mainly because he's going to play close to 80 games. That in itself is a massive breakthrough. He also looks good for 35 points, which is unimpressive. But he's shown that he can stay healthy and he's getting a fair amount of ice time, which is an indicator of the coach's trust. If he can get on a scoring line next year he'll hang onto it. And again if he can stay healthy - he's a dark horse for a surprise season.
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http://hockey.dobbersports.com/index...-march-26-2014
I think that's really critical for Gaudreau is avoiding injury. Which is why I'd probably like to see him play a full year in the AHL to acclimatize to the pro-game. Really don't want Gaudreau to get 'Brule-ed'.