After reading all the comments on this board about Clague, I don't even know what to think anymore since it doesn't jive at all with what Button just said. So many emotions, leading me to conclude:
Most of us care cautious not to label Clague a superstar, then deal with the disappointment of him not living up to expectations.
Take the preseason for example. He looked out of place and unprepared to play at this level in the game he appeared in against the Ducks. He got crushed a couple of times because he doesn't have the same amount of time and space to think as he does at juniors.
Of course, I didn't expect him to set the world on fire in preseason either, and he's exactly where he should be in his development, and he'll get a great opportunity to shine at the WJC.
That said, I still don't consider him to be a "superstar." I'll reserve that label for the Doughty's of the hockey world.
Superstar, No.. but I can't help but think he has some J.Klingberg to his game... so im guessing his potential is that of a PP stud with top 4 Dman pairing..
He could be, or he could also turn out to be the next John Slaney.
John Slaney
Best defenseman in the OHL.
Best defenseman in the CHL.
WJC Gold Medal in '91.
Drafted 9th overall by the Capitals in '90.
Ended up being a high scoring defenseman... in the AHL.
A classic example of why fans shouldn't place these guys on any pedestal before they step foot on an NHL ice surface.
Re Clague I'd be extremely happy if we get a solid top 4 LHD puck mover for a start. Button says he's a sure fire NHLer, so I'll take his word on that since he seems to have a pretty good idea about CHL talent. And if you're a top pairing guy for Canada in the World Jrs tourney, you're a pretty darn good player. The big thing will be for him to mature physically, especially since he if not a 6-2 6-3 guy. A solid jr year this year, and a solid rookie year in ONT, then we'll know a lot better about where he is at.
Clague is developing amazingly well right now. I wouldn't be surprised if he pushes for a spot with the Kings next year.
I can see 6-8 guys in the minors that could/should crack the lineup next season...
Should
Michael Amadio
Paul LaDue
Jack Campbell
Kevin Gravel(Unless traded/released)
Could
Kale Clague
Cal Petersen
Austin Wagner
Gabriel Vilardi
Interesting list. Wagner is the biggest long shot in the group right now, probably by quite a bit. All except Wagner should get at least one NHL preseason game. Wagner will depend on how his game translates this season. He's only had a couple games pro so far, looks pretty raw on structure, so this is going to be a process. Campbell and LaDue should be at the top of the list, followed by Amadio then Gravel. Of course, Clague and Vilardi are blue chippers, so they will have a shot, and Petersen has also been very good.