Some observations:
Orlov can look so damn good on the breakout. Nobody on the roster outside of Green has close to that kind of ability. For all his mistakes, I'd be feeding him NHL ice time to iron out the other aspects of his game. It's not like Hillen and Erskine are far superior.
Carrick's got a good skill set and a really good head for the game. In 2-3 years when he adds some muscle mass and gets a bit more explosive stride, he'll be an NHLer.
Alzner looks to me like he's gotten stronger and faster.
Wilson is really forcing McPhee's hand to make space for him on the roster.
If the preseason so far is any indication of the accuracy we can expect from Ovie, he's going for 50+ this season.
I second these observations on my just finished viewing of the game.
Orlov still pops out with the the skill and offensive instincts. Don't think he pairs well with Olesky but instert shiny new tool alert was playing with Alzner. Even though I'm a prospect guy there does seem to be human nature for young prospects that look ahead of their dev curve in the "look he's only 19!" etc.. Thought the Boyle comparison was apt though I guess Letang (though he's faster and a better skater). I'd rather Carrick being down in Hershey.
I have a feeling Orlov still being waiver exempt has him going to Hershey even though I feel he'd likely progress faster on the 3rd pairing.
Latta is solid but not quite sure about his foot speed which limits his upside, IMO
Other observations keyboard GM crystal ball predictions:
-Wilson has made the team.
-Olesky goes to Hershey
-Byers impresses me sort of like a Hendricks did a few years ago where he opened some eyes. Not sure how he ends up on the roster with more dramatic moves. Has some size and speed.
-Top line looks great. Backstrom seems a little more relaxed in the sense that he does not seem to be hesitating especially when the flow of the game dictates he should take a shot. AO's body language after goals tonight kinda cracks me up, "Pre-season goals can frakk off."
-Could hear Wilson clearly yell out "Grabo" just after crossing the offensive blue line. Such a great pass by Grabo and yeah...its only preseason.
-Props to Strachan and Cajkovsky for good camps. Strachan might make this squad.