[lanny9]

All I can say is that there is going to be some tough decisions going forward. After seeing the last couple games I think I can comment on some players.

Do you keep johnny up or let him get used to the game for a while in the AHL? Skill wise he's obviously there but can he keep it up for the full season, maybe if they sit him every 3 or 4 games to let him rest, just a little worried about the length of season as to what he's used to. I wouldn't be as worried had he come out of junior with the larger schedule but college is different and you know some of the bigger guys after getting burnt by him will try to squash him which could lead to big injuries or just a worn down body so resting him every so often in the NHL this year may be the best option for him. But who knows he may surprise me and be able to elude these large guys going after him all season long and not get worn down? Just that when he is tired during a long shift that is when the larger guys may be able to catch him making a mistake and really cream him.

Sven has looked much stronger physically and mentally, he is actually throwing hits, not getting knocked off the puck as easily, very good sign that he is maturing into the player we all hoped he could be. Does he make the team, anyone's guess but he is not making it easy on the coaches to cut him.

Sam, wow, not only is he skilled but I was really taken by his speed, I did not realize he was as fast as he is. The skill is there for him to play in the NHL this year but I don't think his body is just yet, I am still firmly in the send him back to junior camp even as impressed as I am after the one game. Give him a year to fill out some more and come in next year expecting to take someone's job.

Sean, although not a rookie I do think he deserves comment here. Well what can be said about him? I liked him last year but saw some flaws in his game, mostly foot speed and aggressiveness. He looks as though he has worked a lot on this part of his game, his first few steps are a hell of a lot quicker than last year, he is hitting and is not afraid to hold the puck and make a strong move. I don't know but he has made huge progress in his game imo.

Granlund, skill wise he's there, I know I am in the minority here but I still think he needs 10 lbs on his frame. He seems slight out there to me and I just worry that he may get hurt playing a full season in the NHL where you don't have the time and space like in the AHL.

Ferland had looked good to me, NHL good? Not quite imo but very, very close. I would like to see him back in the AHL for the season, get a full season of pro under his belt and then come in a compete for a full time job next year.

Sieloff, needs another year, missing last year set him back and don't think he is remotely close to baking into the bigs quite yet.

Reinhart, he's very close imo, needs to translate his game to the next level but I think he destined for the farm again this year. Will be one of the first call ups and rightfully so.

Arnold, looks good, needs a year or two in the minors before he's ready.

Agostino same as Arnold, just time, he may be ready next year for 3rd/4th line duties.

I know we all want to see our young guys get spots on the big team but by keeping most of them down on the farm, you not only build team chemistry going forward but you are also developing a winning culture that will not be a part of our NHL team this year. This winning culture can have a dramatic affect on the club in the future when these players are in the NHL competing not only for a playoff spot but hopefully the cup. There will be injuries and this is when you can get the kids some time up with the main club, get them some more experience with the size and speed, this well only serve them well for the coming years as they break into the league.