I think you guys fail to realize things like upside and potential. Is Patrice the better two-way player right now? sure he is, but that doesn't mean Zherdev won't develop a two way game.
Please dont misunderstand, I think Zherdev is a great player, dont let that fact get lost here. It is my opinion that Bergeron will be the better defensive forward throughout his career.
And their offensive talents aren't even close. 61 points in the AHL isn't anything to write home about, even R.J. Umberger (a professional rookie) managed to score 65 points on a comparable team
Comparable team? Sorry, but no where close. Also, Bergeron played the point on the PP for the P Bruins as they really didnt have a true PP QB. Umberger also played 12 more games. Again, I conceeded a long time ago that Zherdev will be the much better point producer.
. Bergeron will deliver the big hit? let's be real here, Bergeron has never and will probably never deliver a game changing hit, he's not that type of player
Well this is an easy way for you to say: "I have never really seen Bergeron play". Ask the Ottawa Senators if they think he lays big hits. The kid lays some big time body shots and plays a very physical game.
. He's not an exceptional penalty killer (i.e. Mike Richards) and while his hockey sense is very good for someone his age, it's not significantly better than Zherdev's, if at all.
He is a good PK guy who will get better. He killed penalties in the NHL, Richards hasnt so we will see.
Zherdev's offensive talents can't be denied. He has great speed, stickhandling ability, and a very good arsenal of shots. He's an elite offensive player and already capable of scoring close to a point per game in the NHL.
He may well be, but he hasnt yet. I will not deny, and never have, his offensive prowess. Please keep in mind I am not bashing Zherdev.
He was exceptional in the second half of the season and like has already been mentioned scored just 5 fewer points in 15 fewer games (i.e. he has a better PPG). Add to the fact that Zherdev played with significantly weaker linemates and I think it's pretty difficult to argue that Bergeron is Zherdev's equal offensively. I just don't see Bergeron as this great intangible player that you make him out to be and I've seen him play plenty of times.
Never said Bergeron was better offensively. Never even hinted at it.
BTW- Start a poll, see how many people would pick Bergeron before Zherdev and don't allow Bruins and Blue Jackets fans to vote.
I am sure Zherdev would win. Thats ok though. I do not deny what a great player he is, I just will take my chances with Bergeron.