Quote:
Originally Posted by Enoch Root
The expectations are getting a little crazy for Valimaki here. The chances of him being in the Calder race are low if only because, as someone pointed out, he probably doesn't get the opportunity on the PP that is required in order to put up the points necessary to get noticed.
However, on that note, I think it would be a great idea to give him that opportunity.
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I understand that at the NHL it's all about winning, especially for a team in their
window of opportunity and not development (lower leagues are for development*)
BUT
I have long wished that PP2 be a place where you put your young players who have an offensive pedigree or that you think have an offensive dimension to get those touches and that confidence building of production.
I like guys like Backs, Ryan but I'd rather see Bennett, Hanifin, Andersson or in the past Janko, or in the future Phillips, Gawdin etc play there and grow confidence with making plays and scoring goals.
Vets who are established (and got their contracts ie pay days) can focus on PK or be better rested for 5 on 5.
Put young guys in positions to succeed, to grow confidence and reach their potential.
*development happens at every level and can happen well into a career but the gist is NHL is for cut throat competition moreso than teaching in - game.