Yes, it was a poorly worded post. I meant I see the same path forward for both players.
Fair. I don't see the comparison (in both being overhyped). Caufield's not coming in as a savior; Suzuki and Kotkaniemi shoulder more of those expectations than Caufield.
Galchenyuk's issues included the responsibilities of a centerman and coaches that did not view him as a centerman. He struggled to develop chemistry with linemates, and he had numerous off-ice issues.
Caufield--to this point--demonstrates the enthusiasm and discipline that you want to see in young players. He has holes in his game, certainly, but he's improved in his short span as a professional (which dates only a month or two). That is, he's positionally very aware; he's raw defensively but clearly paying attention and reads the play pretty well. There's little reason to think he won't be sufficient defensively since he's demonstrated the commitment to pay attention to details, get his stick in passing lanes, etc. He's hardly been a giveaway machine as you claimed.
Most importantly, he's a natural goal scorer and finds open space--as snipers do. He'll need to improve his first few steps and his ability to compete along the boards, but those are normal areas of improvement for young rookies.
Bottom line: I think it's
really early to claim he's overhyped. He's clearly a natural goal scorer and has demonstrated commitment to improve his weaknesses. That's a dangerous combination.
