Quote:
Originally Posted by 868904
I've said it before and i'll say it again, but Colborne should develop into a Martin Hanzal type.
A perennial 30 to 40 point guy who is a beast on the puck and the cycle. Colborne showed that he can be much more physical too, which would make him even more valuable than Hanzal.
Only thing missing is the faceoff acumen. Colborne seems to do decently in the dot for a young player, i'm not sure why Hartley doesn't use him more there. Having a 6'5" centreman who is good in the draws will be extremely valuable for this team.
I really think Colborne should be the 3rd line centre instead of Backlund. Backlund just doesn't have the strength in that role, plus Backlund has always had success on the wing in Sweden especially when he played with big Patrik Berglund. Plus I think being on the wing would allow Backlund to be more creative with his offensive game. Flames can still benefit from Backlund's defensive skills if he's on the wing.
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I had higher expectations for Colborne, thinking that he could be the next Joe Thornton due to his great physical parameters. You may be right, though. Hopefully, he could continue to develop nicely into a big and dangerous 2nd line centreman.
I do like your suggestion on Backlund. It looks like he would never be able to outgrow the smaller centre role on the 3rd or 4th line. Being on the wing, could actually work better for him and for the team.