Jordan Staal Query

[Flames Draft Watcher]

Personally, having watched them for 2-3 years, I don't see how Staal is better than Bryan Little, but someone is seeing something I'm not.

It's not about who's better in junior. It's about who will be better in the NHL against bigger, stronger players. That's why all things being equal, a bigger guy has a better chance of excelling in the NHL.

 

[borro]

We are going to acquire all of the Staal's and then put the four corners in hockey!

 

[Marc the Habs Fan]

As long as St. Louis is picking above Washington, I'll put money down that Staal isn't on the board when the Caps pick.

Wow, you think the Blues could pick Staal 1st?

Or are you assuming the Pens get the top pick and grab Johnson and then the Blues could grab Staal at 2?

 

[Ted Hoffman]

Wow, you think the Blues could pick Staal 1st?

Or are you assuming the Pens get the top pick and grab Johnson and then the Blues could grab Staal at 2?

The Blues would take Staal at 2. Ideally they'd take him at 3 or 4 with the knowledge that someone behind them wants Kessel, but if they can't get a near-guarantee on it, they'd take someone *not* named Phil Kessel at 2.

 

[Marc the Habs Fan]

The Blues would take Staal at 2. Ideally they'd take him at 3 or 4 with the knowledge that someone behind them wants Kessel, but if they can't get a near-guarantee on it, they'd take someone *not* named Phil Kessel at 2.

Interesting...

So basically I have to hope the Blues get the 1st pick and grab E-Jay.

Any particular reason why they would be against taking Kessel?

 

[Ted Hoffman]

Interesting...

So basically I have to hope the Blues get the 1st pick and grab E-Jay.

Any particular reason why they would be against taking Kessel?

IMO - look at how he played at the WJC's. Not his point totals, the fact that even when it was clear Canada, Russia and Finland knew what move he was going to make coming down the ice, he still tried it. And when it was clear it wasn't working, he still kept on trying it. For me, that's a huge red flag; it shows he either lacks creativity, is selfish, or struggles to utilize his linemates. He might be doing better in the NCAA's, but on a stage like that where there's pressure to do well I don't think it's a good sign.

 

[Amazing Oopah]

I really don't see Staal going top 2... but, neverthless, I can imagine an scenario where the GM will look at his older brother Eric's season and pull the trigger at number #2 or #3 hoping he'll be able to put up similar numbers one day.