Quote:
Originally Posted by Red John
One more update on Phillips, saw him play again tonight.
He is fearless for a small guy, often puts himself into harms way in dangerous spots on the ice, he drew two 3rd period powerplays tonight literally by being short as defender's elbows tend to be equal in height to his head and he drove right to the net both times. Its great to have spunk and be fearless but he's going to have to pick his spots more if he wants to survive.
Wish he would attack defenders more when carrying the puck into the zone, he chose to chip and chase several times tonight when his speed could have pushed defenders back, though quick and shifty probably describes his skating moreso than flat-out fast. Wasn't dynamic at all and personally it is shocking that he has 48 goals on the season, he just isn't that noticeable at even strength but again having him on a line with Hannoun isn't doing him any favours. Wish he was more assertive on the backcheck and in the neutral zone without the puck. Still absolutely exceeding expectations for a 6th round pick and would go much higher in a re-draft, speaking one year later. Will probably be Mr. Everything for the Royals next year as a 19, his team is only a wildcard playoff team this year and will likely be one and done in the playoffs but the sky's the limit next year in the pivotal draft+2 season.
Dillon Dube was the best player on the ice tonight. Had four points although he was a -1 on the night funny enough. Had a wonderful tip for a goal in the second period and scored the OT winner on a nicely placed shot on a 4-on-3 PP. He was assertive and dynamic tonight and using his wheels on the forecheck to disrupt, hes been taking defenders wide more often lately with puck and using his speed. Patient in the offensive zone and is willing to make the simple play when fancier options not available, something that wasn't always the case. Up to 53 points in 37 games now which is a great pace. Could go on a long playoff run this year, be interesting to see how he does in bigger situations.
|
I totally believe what you are saying about Phillips is accurate from the games you watched, but Phillips has had many games where he has been dynamic for Victoria. He has not been good vs the Rockets this year which could be a concern considering Foote is probably a major reason and that's the type of player Phillips will need to figure out how to play against if he wants to make the Flames.
Dube has been awesome as of late, I loved his one timer the other night. Seems very versatile and a player who could help the Flames in the not so distant future. I look forward to watching him have a much bigger role on team Canada next year. In an ideal world would you like Dube in the AHL next year or with the Rockets? I know this isn't possible but from his highlights I think he could make the jump next year.