Can anyone explain why they still do this Bantam draft junk? These kids aren't near developed enough to properly scout and in the OHL/QMJHL, that first year of midget really exposes some kids who may have been overrated in Bantam.
Don't get me wrong, the OHL & QMJHL still miss tons of players but not near as much as the WHL.
The WHL does the draft 1 full year earlier then the CHL,NAHL,USHL, for 1 reason only. They want to sign the top 10 kids first. The rest is all up in the air. I agree is too early. Many parents look at the signing and then the free skates,free sticks and baseball hat,etc. Then is 3 months time - it hits them and they wake up.
The parents and the players think this is the best thing in the world, then the kid signs and he is trapped. The WHL does offer school for each year played. But the main reason is to get the kids locked up.
One of the many reasons why USA Hockey is doing well is the slower level of graduation to the next level. USA Hockey has a strong U-16,U-17 NAHL, USHL, ECHL.
and the NCAA. They are not fully ready till they are in their 20's.
A few examples: Sean Day moved to back to Canada to play up, Ty Benson will play in the WHL next season. Why because they are pushing these kids way too fast. A 20 year and a 16 year old , 15 for some is silly. Parents egos, the all mighty dollar, agents trying to ( sorry advisors) trying to show who they represent. Most of these talented kids will be working construction in 5 years and will have had way too many injuries at a very young age.
17 years old should be the age no matter how good they are. I would also add that the schooling that these kids get at 15,16 is a joke when they play for these teams.