Klimchuk's numbers this year.

[dissentowner]

Compared to his last two seasons his numbers look down, anyone know why that follows the WHL?

[mile]

I've been tracking his stats but haven't watched the Pats at all.

It looks like he's been consistent (had a 9 game point streak, 7th best in the WHL and highest on his team) from late October to late November, he just hasn't had the huge multi-point games he had last year - its been mostly 1 point games. IIRC it wasn't until he returned from injury in the middle of last year that he started to go on a tear. So maybe he is starting slow again and will improve after Christmas (a possible World Jr run definitely might help). It could be line mates as well.

I'd definitely like to know from someone who has watched the Pats this year as well.

[HighLifeMan]

Based on what I have read and on the limited amount I have seen, Morgan Klimchuk has almost exclusively played with 16 year old rookie Sam Steel and overager Braden Christoffer on the second line this season. Sam Steel is a heck of a young player and will without a doubt be a top end draft pick next year, but I would not exactly say that Klimchuk's situation is conducive to producing a ton of points all things considered.

In addition to that he has struggled to produce on the PP (just one goal so far), so I would certainly expect those results to turn around in short order.

With that said despite not producing offensively at an elite level (for his standards), the Regina Pats have become a legitimate threat in the WHL since Klimchuk returned to their lineup.

With Klimchuk (14-6-1)
Without Klimchuk (4-5-0)

He is the type of player that will effect the game in a multitude of ways, and I think the Pats record since his return speaks volumes to that.

[lanny9]

I have always said he could be an excellent 3rd liner in the NHL. His hockey iq is up there, he is very, very responsible, is great at killing penalties and is used against the other team's top lines as much as possible. Just this evening they had the Pats assistant coach on the local radio and he was just gushing at how well Klimchuk has played since coming back from injury at the start of the season. He said he thinks the game at such a high level which really helps when they are playing against some tough competition, as seen with their play recently they have been knocking off the top teams in the league on their western swing and then Brandon twice in the last week.

His numbers may not say elite but my expectations have always been third line and as a third liner he could be elite! Every very successful team has a player like this, I feel this is his future, great 3rd liner that could move up and down the lineup as needed.

[sa226]

I think Klimchuk is going to be one of those un-definable players. He will never be a go to guy, but has the talent to ride shotgun on the top line, and play the powerplay. But also the IQ and responsibility to play the PK and take defensive matchups.

Early on his health s has been a stumbling block, but I do think he will be a fixture here for a long time. Also I think the best thing he has going for him is lack of spotlight and fan expectations. He is behind Bennet, Poirier, Gaudreau and Monahan as far as prospects go. If he were to be the lone forward prospect with a hint of promise (much like Backlund was) It could have impacted(thanks getbak) his development.

I think Klimchuk will be a good one.

[mile]

Klimchuk said in an pre-world junior camp availability a week ago that he's been playing a lot of right wing lately. He is capable of playing both sides, but I would think playing on his off-wing in addition to second line minutes might bump his production down a bit.

As said by others, he's the type of player who you can't define as a top liner or a 4th liner. He can play anywhere.

[ForeverFlameFan]

Due to the Fire on Ice forum, now I am curious about Morgan. How is he doing? I do know that he was disappointed he got cut from TC, but he said he will use his anger towards the Pats games. Good for him!

[442scotty]

His numbers lately seem to be..meh

[lanny9]

Going to the game against Calgary on the 4th, will give a good update after. I do hear lots about him here in Regina, all very good, as in he will be a very good professional. He's not going to be 1st or 2nd line material but he will be one hell of a 3rd liner good shut down /pk man. Those expecting more will not agree with me of course but I'm still thinking this is an excellent pick, he's a guy every team needs imo.