Up to 18pts in 8gp and +12.
I was at the game this eve. Bit of a weird game and each team had like 8 penalties, so the flow was almost non existent, but Byfield picked up 2pts +2 and was the 3rd star in 5-4 loss. He laid few good hits too, and it was one of the most physical games that Ive ever seen him play.
Biggest takeaway is that this kids 2 way game is going to become a bigger and bigger focal point as the year goes on. It felt like he didnt lose a faceoff all night (he was 12/17 in actuality but he didnt lose a single one cleanly from what I saw). And he was used in every conceivable situation all night long, and was by far Sudbury's best and most important player.
I know Im obviously biased, but hes legit the best player to ever put on a Wolves jersey (and we have a rich history despite many of the last years being a bit rough). Byfield is a next level prospect - I dont even know who to compare him to at this point because his overall package is unlike anyone before, tbh. Hes got the Crosby like blue collar work ethic, and while they have different offensive tools, they have a similar non flashy yet highly efficient approach to the game. Higher hockey IQ fans will appreciate the little things he does all over the ice, where some may wrongly use the lack of flash as a reason to question his offensive ceiling.
But then he also has Malkins size and reach, and about the same level of physicality (not Lindros level - but also not a player you want to piss off and make angry). And his speed, agility and edgework may be the best we've ever seen in a player his size before, Im drawing a real blank there on the comparable. Its probably what will make him nearly impossible to handle in his prime. He will be ranked in the very upper echelon of skaters in the NHL, no doubt at all in my mind.
And maybe its just me, but I cant help but notice how and engaged he is while talking with the coaching staff, which always seems to start the moment he gets back to bench from his shift. Take note because this is a true student of the game if Ive ever seen one.
This is not an entitled hot shot prospect from the GTA from an affluent upper middle class family. If not for outside sponsors to help financially, he might not have ever made it to this level.
This is a kid from a humble upbringing that is making the most of his opportunity to set his family up for life. And I see him fighting for every square inch for his entire hockey career.
Im praying to the hockey gods every night that the Sens have suffered enough and get blessed with a gift like this. Whatever lucky team gets him is getting a real franchise center and a perfect ambassador to be the face of the team.