Can you guys give me some info on Ducks players who made their NHL debut last season? What type of player are they, do they have an NHL future and what role do they project into long-term? Thanks!
Troy Terry
Marcus Pettersson
Gionvanni Fiore
Andy Welinski
Kevin Roy
Troy Terry -- Sample size aside, in his short NHL stint, he looked like an NHL-caliber forward in every area but one: physicality. He showed excellent patience with the puck, slick hands, and excellent hockey IQ, but he didn't keep his head up and got knocked around a lot. If he can work out his strength issues, he's definitely going to be a solid top 6 or even top line forward.
Marcus Pettersson -- He's a beanpole and he's still on the raw side, but he grew increasingly comfortable as the season went on. He's a solid passer with a good defensive game. Like most defenders that come out of Sweden, hockey IQ is his strong suit. He's a competitor as well and isn't afraid to get into the rough stuff. Not really sure what his upside is at this point, but if things go right, he could be a solid #4 or #5 with strong defensive play. Filling out his frame would be a bonus.
Giovanni Fiore -- He's a goal-scorer with a solid shot and good offensive instincts. He surprised everyone by making the team out of training camp and ended up having a decent season with San Diego after getting sent down. He's a fair bit off from a consistent NHL gig but I like him. If things go right, he could add some scoring punch to the bottom 6.
Andy Welinski -- He's a late bloomer who finally made his NHL debut this past season and looked capable. He's a solid all-around defender with a hard slapshot. He's got some meat on him and is pretty good in the physical aspects of the game. He'll likely slot in as a steady bottom-pairing defender in the future.
Kevin Roy -- He's creative and shifty with good offensive instincts, but he just doesn't have the footspeed necessary to overcome his size deficiency. He keeps his head up and doesn't get knocked around much, but he loses too many puck battles. He's a smart hockey player with a strong work rate, but he gets out-muscled too easily and doesn't have the explosiveness to generate offense by himself. If he can add strength, he could still find a role as a solid energy-line player who could chip in some offensively, but I don't think he's an NHL player at this point without getting stronger.
