Parekh needs time to develop the defensive side of his game as well as strengthening his body. The fact that keeping him in junior saves a year of his elc is a happy coincidence. Is the argument that keeping him in the NHL as an 18 yo is somehow going to be infinitely better for his development than another year in the OHL?
Give him his 9 games, then send him down knowing exactly what he needs to work on.
If he’s not 100% ready next season, do it again.
Imagine a 20 year old Parekh just starting his elc. How valuable is he in his D+4 and D+5 years when there is a chance we actually could compete.
Then, when he’s 23, you have a much better understanding of what you have and can sign him to a long term or bridge deal.
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