Quote:
Originally Posted by killer_carlson
I really want to see him get to about 220 lbs. I think if he doesn't put muscle on the frame he'll wear out early like Bouma seems to be doing.
|
Bouma is grinder, Tkachuk is an elite level talent who pushes around grown men already. His muscle will come naturally and 220 is pretty big for a guy who is listed at 188 cm. 210-215 is ideal for him while continuing to improve his skating. Tkachuk doesn't throw nearly as many hits as Bouma used to. A better comparable would be looking at Perry's career and how he is possibly dropping off now. Tkachuk has an engine along the boards that is pretty remarkable for his age and he already seems to be very strong already. Using Bouma's career to project Tkachuk's is pretty laughable as Tkachuks game is much more advanced while his body takes less punishment. Tkachuk doesn't play like a crash and banger, he gets under the oppositions nerves and takes a couple jabs to the face but he's not damaging his body. If anything Tkachuk seems to play a game that will lead to longevity, he's this good while he doesn't rely on his skating, which many other young players who break into the league at his age do. He also has been able to play through injuries and play at a very high level, just go look at the memorial cup when he was playing on a bum ankle.