He is physically too much for the CHL and would stagnate there. I think he needs to be in Stockton for a few reasons:
1) to get professional coaching and learn how to play the power forward game
2) to work full time on his conditioning - he needs to get significantly stronger
3) to work full time on his skating - he needs an explosive first stride
He needs to be pushed. He needs to develop in ways that will make him a good pro.
If they can get that big frame into awesome shape, teach him how to utilize it, and develop his skating, Smith could be a very impactful NHLer in a couple of years.
To those saying he could get a call-up this coming season, not a chance IMO, he's not even close to ready yet.
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