Duane Sutter comments on the prospects....

[Flames Draft Watcher]

Originally Posted by Ford Prefect

I'd love to hear a report from one of you QC guys on Irving. It sounds like he's having a pretty good rookie season, barring the first quarter. Does he look ready to be Miikka's backup next year, or would it better for him to spend another season in QC where he'd actually get to play a few games? From the reports I've read it sounds like he might have a shot at the NHL, but if the club isn't willing to give him 15 to 20 starts it would probably just stunt his development.

I'd say he's on track to be a clear starter in the AHL next year (this year he's been splitting the games). Goalies shouldn't be rushed.

[PIMking]

Originally Posted by Ford Prefect

I'd love to hear a report from one of you QC guys on Irving. It sounds like he's having a pretty good rookie season, barring the first quarter. Does he look ready to be Miikka's backup next year, or would it better for him to spend another season in QC where he'd actually get to play a few games? From the reports I've read it sounds like he might have a shot at the NHL, but if the club isn't willing to give him 15 to 20 starts it would probably just stunt his development.

The best thing for Leland is keeping him in the AHL dont ruin him by making him ride the pine and play 4 games next year in the NHL. He will still need to develop. take keetley and let hiim waste his time because hes not going to amount to anything in the NHL. Irving needs to play for another year or two before hes going to be ready. I dont think there is a need to rush him.

[JiriHrdina]

Originally Posted by dustygoon

When I think of Taratukhin I think of him making the Russian Olympic team. Granted there were some good players not on that team, but I thought it said something about him and where he stood against some of his peers.

I think he made the team for a specific role, as a checking line centre.

I actually was quite impressed by Taratuhkin when ever I saw him but I think his upside was limited. Problem was, he got over-hyped. One local radio sports personality who is being discussed on the main board proclaimed that the Flames 2nd line centre problem was solved -when he agreed to come over.

People hear that stuff and get overly excited.

I think he could have been an NHLer, but not an impact one.