Quote:
Originally Posted by TheScorpion
Why would you question Kerins' shot? He's been an excellent finisher for his entire OHL career.
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Because there is a difference between beating junior goaltenders and professionals. I don't know how many times people need it explained to them, but the jump between leagues is substantial. You are going from a league where you were "the best", to the next league where EVRYONE was the best from the previous level. What might have worked at one level may not work at the next. See Zavgorodniy as an example. A highly skilled junior player that scored with a high degree of regularity. 1 goal in 45 professional games across two leagues. Sometimes skills just don't translate. There's a reason why players get drafted late like this, and its usually because there is a belief skills may not translate.
As to skills, Keirns shot has never really impressed me. He's opportunistic and the pucks find their way in, but it isn't like he has a wicked release or a shot that overpowers a goaltender. He's accurate, especially picking the low corners, but he doesn't possess what you would call a sniper's rifle for shot. How many of those shots do you think the goaltenders wanted back? Will that ability to find holes continue at the next level? Here's his goal scoring highlights. You tell me you see an NHL shot?
Compare to Zary. How many of those shots ended up with the goaltender is looking behind him because he was beat so cleanly?
Here's a guy with a sniper shot.
Beyond Keirns' shot, what do you think of his skating? I'm not sure I see an NHL stride there. Compare if you will.
Counting points is not a great way to judge junior players. Robbie Schremp should remind everyone that junior scoring exploits don't amount to much. Look at skills and whether those skills are at an elite level and will translate to the NHL.