Quote:
Originally Posted by Cleveland Steam Whistle
I don't disagree with anyone who says be patient with Bennett and to remember this is only year 2 for him. He plays the toughest position (or they'd like him to) as well.
What I do think is funny though is watching the difference how a large % of the fan base reacts or interprets what goes on out there when it comes to Monahan and Bennett and their development. While I think their "styles of play" impact it a little, I actually think it mostly has to do with everyone's preconceived opinions at draft time, that they simply won't let go, despite having lots if NHL data now to go on.
What I'm getting at, is even if you took away this seasons struggles, this board on average has far more confidence in Bennett becoming our #1 centre of the future than Monahan. Despite the fact that at like for like time frames in their NHL development Monahan is has actually accomplished and shown far more at the NHL level. Yet many are very quick to credit Johnny for all his success (despite not playing with Johnny in his first year) and quick to excuse away Bennett's lack of progress due to lack of opportunity, line mates or coaching.
I think all comes down to the fact that people want people to be who they expected them to be when drafted, despite what the evidence might be showing. For many, Bennett was a 4th overall pick, but we really want to believe he should have actually been first overall if it weren't for chin ups and we got a steal in the draft. Monahan was 6th overall, and not even the consuls 6th pick.
I feel like people's opinions for both these players are still drastically impacted by the above, despite a decent amount of NHL play to observe.
|
Bennett outproduced Monahan in their respective first years. In the NHL.
Bennett in his second year is outproducing Monahan in his fourth. In the NHL.
Bennett is playing 3rd line LW while Monahan is getting gifted offensive zone starts /top six minutes down the middle with Versteeg/Gaudreau all season.
Not that any of these things mean anything. Bennett's development is going to crap as 3rd line LW. He is now trying his hardest to be Lance Bouma, just happy to get a change off the ice.