I didn't think Iorio was altogether brilliant in the Calder Cup run. There were times when he was their weakest blueliner. They were all playing pretty well but he does find himself in hot water now and then from a decision-making standpoint. That's somewhat to be expected for an AHL rookie in that environment but, still, I didn't see a no doubt future top 4 stud per se. He's got a lot to work with in terms of size, straight on speed and decent skill. He could in theory play on a third pair next season. But his lateral mobility can be iffy defending transition attacks. He doesn't always play to his size and doesn't have PP upside absent further development.
That said, he does have the highest floor at this point. His frame puts him ahead of Chesley IMO for now. Had Chesley displayed a more regular high skill level with the Gophers or at least a complete nails defensive game I'd put him ahead. Chesley's phased out role at the WJCs also leaves something of a poor taste on his season and he did struggle in that environment. I was a fan in his draft year and he's a very mature player in terms of strength. He's more polished than someone like Allen but I have somewhat similar concerns. Both have a pretty mature strength level but the sense, skill level and decision-making aren't great. Chesley is steadier to be sure but at the NCAA level you'd mainly like more offensive production to be confident in a higher degree of NHL upside. He could have a killer sophomore season in an even bigger and more demanding role and also more of a senior role at the WJCs. For now his stock has lowered a bit one year in IMO.
Cristall's upside is potentially pretty special, even if it may take a while. Suzdalev has a size advantage but doesn't really play to it, has similar off puck pro habits to improve and wasn't a primary facilitator like Cristall. As much as shiny new toy syndrome is a thing I think it's just a function of the paces older prospects are put through at the pro level and how more strenuously they've been challenged. Realistically it's harder to believe in Lapierre's top six NHL upside, for instance. It could still happen but it's less promising than it initially was. Cristall's relatively more rare offensive skill set distinguishes him here. No one has carried their team offensively in junior like he did. He could be a dynamic top six skill player if he brings true pro habits to the table refining his skill set and adopting a more all-around competitive mentality. In addition to getting stronger/faster he'll also need to add some vinegar, play through contact and not be content on the perimeter. But he's got a rarefied skill level and offensive hockey IQ that can be pretty electric. I'm really interested in whether he earns pre-season action and how bold he'll play in that environment if so.
