Quote:
Originally Posted by Enoch Root
One of the most baffling things to me is how fans think guys like Hanifin 'are what they are' at 24, simply because they were good enough at a young age to play in the NHL, but guys like Mackey at 24, are perceived to have nothing but upside.
It is one of the most bizarre fan quirks there is.
Giordano became a full time NHLer as a 25 year old. Brodie hit his stride as a 24 year old. Andersson continues to improve every year (he is 24).
But Hanifin is what he is. Okay then.
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I'm more than fine being patient with Hanifin. As you mentioned, Dmen historically hit their stride much later than forwards. Those Dmen that are impact players in their early 20s are the exceptions and not the norm. Hanifin might not hit his stride until his mid to late 20s. Is that something the franchise is willing to be patient with? Fans might not but I myself am more than willing to be patient in his development.
I'd like to see him get a bit more PP time too.