Huh? I’m saying that I think Neighbors is a WAY better prospect than Bolduc, is all.
Bolduc reminds me of Nick Schmaltz but taller, stronger, and much more willing to use his shot. But I think he’s much worse with the puck, and much poorer in transition. Not as good as Schmaltz at creating turnovers, either. But they’re the same in a lot of ways. Often a bit lazy, often a bit dumb, neither can really figure out how to pay center, other than bots and pieces of it. Both are talented and should be better than they are. Bolduc has time and his production is good, but he never passes the eye test for me. Im honestly more impressed by James Malatesta when I watch Quebec play.
Meanwhile, I see Neighbors as a bit of a poor man’s Matthew Tkachuk. Underrated playmaker. His passing skills aren’t jaw dropping, but his vision and instincts are really good. He puts the puck in high danger areas. He’s really a benefit to skilled linemates because he works his ass off, takes the puck to tough areas, and has the smarts to put it in the best real-estate for goals. He’s fun to watch because of all the intangibles you hear about. I really don’t think his production is only high because he plays with talent. I do believe it’s a two-way street. He’s the kind of guy who earns his secondary assists. You know how sometimes a guy gets a REALLY good secondary assist? That’s Neighbors.
My only point was that I prefer Neighbors and by a whole heckuva lot. I’d probably rather have Neighbors than pick #15. Meanwhile, I’d probably rather have pick #45 than Bolduc.
None of that is to say I’m right about any of it. Just how I see it.
