I would be quite happy to get Matthews.
But the learning curve for a Centre in the Central is a beast! I would expect him to struggle most of the season.
Paticularly being a top two C.
Struggles plus big points - like Eichel.
We are in the best spot, we don't make the decision, we get one of the stars. The Leafs however, if whoever we get at #2 out performs their #1, they'll never hear the end of it. You'll have half the board saying, "I knew xxxx should have been number one! Stupid Leafs!"
I would be quite happy to get Matthews.
But the learning curve for a Centre in the Central is a beast! I would expect him to struggle most of the season.
Paticularly being a top two C.
I concede!
Matthews is a very special talent. He already looks more polished than Larkin. He has fantastic skills and is a big body. I think he'll adapt just fine, and the Jets can put him in an ideal situation starting behind two top-notch centers.
Leafs will take Matthews.
They want a young #1 franchise Center. That they control for 7 yrs minimum. Who can grow with their young players. No chance they pass on that.
I think Stamkos wants to be a Center. They have Nylander and Kadri behind him. That's pretty stacked at Center. If Stamkos is in play, the Leafs can go either way at #1.
I think Stamkos wants to be a Center. They have Nylander and Kadri behind him. That's pretty stacked at Center. If Stamkos is in play, the Leafs can go either way at #1.
Believe the speculation is Nylander will play wing.
Leafs need a major upgrade to Bozek and Kadri if they want to be a cup contender. Matthews AND Stamkos would be that. With Marner, Nylander, JVR on wings.
Why are they playing Nylander at C with the Marlies then?
I'll sneak this in here. Laine highlight video I did with no stupid music.
His shot is ridiculous! He gets a shot off so quick and accurate. Even his wrist shot looks like a rocket. Even if he didn't know how to skate he could score goals
Yeah, but there is that weird "drop to one knee thing" on his one-timers. I'm sure that will be first on the list for Maurice and his staff to coach out of him in an effort to improve his technique and make him a better goal scorer.
Yes, he should also stop the puck fully and wind up properly before he shoots. That seems to be our way.
And then miss the net, don't forget that important part. Maurice knows that NHL goalies are too good to beat with a direct shot. You have to be banking on (snicker) a lucky bounce off a player standing 6' away from the net. Look at how many goals Stu gets that way.
Stamkos isn't an elite C. It would be better to have Matthews at C and Stamkos as the top winger. If the Leafs decide to break the bank to sign Stamkos to play C then you'd have to wonder a bit about their management group.