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Originally Posted by Calgary4LIfe
Two things to keep in mind with regards to Jankowski - Poirier was not seen as much of a 'project' at all - definitely was not an 'nhl ready' prospect when drafted, but he was not considered a project pick. Jankowski was very much considered a project pick when drafted, and thus did need more time adjusting.
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I agree with that but I also think that where he was at physically in April 2015 was a level of a young AHL player.
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He needed 4 years because he was a beanpole and has needed years to fill out and grow into his body. It helps his confidence to use his size to his advantage now
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He finished last season brimming with confidence in his size.
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I think keeping him at a level until he's physically dominating it is best for his long term confidence and the development of his game.
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The same could be said for Bennett and Kylington. All players who still need to get stronger and are doing so while developing as rookie pros.
Again, Jankowski finished last season as physically developed as most rookie AHLers. Stockton is a great place to continue to grow physically while playing at a higher level, in a system that lets him use his creativity better. And under contract.
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Much better to have him playing in all situations for a top level NCCA program then playing 3rd or 4th line minutes in the AHL IMO. You disagree?
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I think playing 68 AHL games (+playoffs?) in a pro environment and a new system would have been better than playing 35 games in the NCAA where he
already played well enough in all situations to win a championship as pretty much their best forward. And I think with his talent he would have been a top 6 F on Stockton right now.
It doesn't matter now though. All that matters is him finishing up his season on a high note and getting him signed.