.5 ppg isn’t something that I’d latch onto at 22. Less than that prior. It just isn’t high end production. His play just wasn’t good IMO. I was a fan of the pick and he hasn’t taken steps forward until last year. I hope it continues, but as for it being impressive… I can’t get on board with that as a 23 year old player. That’s typically a peak and he’s basically at the same rate as NHL burnout players. The KHL looked significantly weaker than the AHL to my eyes last year, but certainly weaker than a few years prior. Either way though, points are only part of it. At his size, skating, propensity to skate with the puck with his head down, and general lack of high end skill… I don’t see a high success rate chance.
I really hope he proves me wrong as the Avs could use another Lehky style player. I just don’t see a long term NHLer here. A guy who will certainly get games based on his contract and will get a run. Will he stick for 200+ games? I have my doubts.