Quote:
Originally Posted by GreenLantern
Didn't we go through the same thing with Ferland? Struggled at the pro level, sent him back to junior to dominate and then worked his way back up.
Seems to have worked out ok for him. Wouldn't be worried at all to see Smith make the jump next year.
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We do have to be careful when comparing a guy like Hunter Smith to Ferland.
In my opinion, if NHL teams felt confident that Ferland's head would be where it is today at this age when he was drafted...He would have been a 2nd round pick at the latest. I don't think teams ever questioned his physical skills and ability, but there was always risk associate with the off ice stuff. Today he seems to be on a great path in terms of the off ice stuff and has himself set up to be a really successful NHL player if he can stay on that path.
Hunter Smith still went in the 2nd round in his draft year. I think his character and work ethic has been less of a concern to NHL teams as his NHL level skills. At this point the AHL in my opinion is the place where he needs to be for skill development.