Didn’t say better than Matthews, said he’d be on par.
While I agree that Matthews is better than Eichel, I don’t think the separation is big enough that it’s undeniable.
I don’t think Eichels gotten a fair shake given how terrible his team is/was.
Same leniency I’m giving EP.
I think the separation between Matthews and Eichel is a level. Just my opinion. Matthews is huge, thick and strong as an ox. His release is on par with anyone in the league and he's one of a few players who could legit challenge for the Rocket any given year while still eclipsing a PPG. He's also extremely tenacious when hounding the puck. Again, just my opinion, but I don't think Eichel is that close to him.
As for Pettersson, I think he actually has a more superior toolbox than Eichel, I really do. His passing is already elite and his shot is deceptive. His creativity and hockey IQ is what gives him the potential to one day be as good as, if not better than, Eichel.
I know this isn't an Eichel thread, but the more I watch him, the less impressed I become TBH. With Matthews and Pettersson, it's the opposite. Matthews is an absolute high-end gem and Pettersson has knocked by socks off in preseason and in game 1. When he fills out and packs on about 15-20 pounds, he's going to be a beast.
Canucks have a good one here. And, in terms of his draft year, I think he will leave Hischier and Patrick in the dust in a few years.