I don't know who'll be better, because I don't know that much about Getzlaf other than what I've heard (all good). I do know a little bit about Richards however, and I'm extremely impressed. We all know about how how great he was in juniors, and then in the AHL playoffs, and his excellent pre-season; but underneath all of the hype of the other NHL super rookies, he's having himself an excellent start to the season.
Whenever you're discussing prospects, you must consider their adjustment time, but when I watch Richards, I have to keep reminding myself that he's only 20 years old. I know it's only been two games, but dare I say he's already a top-6 player. His talent in both ends of the ice is obvious, and he's already getting big PK minutes from Ken Hitchcock who's never been a fan of rookies. Offensively, he's been the best player for the Flyers other than Forsberg and Gagne. He absolutely ripped a shot over Weekes for his first career goal, and tonight against New Jersey had two beautiful cross-ice passes that set up goals. Beyond that, he's seems to be well supplied with the intangibles (i.e., physical play, leadership qualities, well liked by teammates already) which will only help him adapt to the NHL even faster.
He's already a fan favorite in Philadelphia, no question about it. I rarely get all googly eyed over prospects, but I think he can be a 70-point centerman who's strong on both ends of the ice, and providing he doesn't go anywhere, will be the captain of the Flyers after Primeau is gone without a doubt. To me, that sounds like first line material on most teams, as 70-points is not world beating, but pretty darn good. I guess the better terminology would be good 1st line center, very good second line center, and I'm extremely pleased that I'll be able to watch his development in Philly.
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