MichaelJ
Registered User
- May 20, 2013
- 7,874
- 766
Oh same here, I'm excited for our forward prospects as well. I think what makes me more excited about them is actually our defense. By the looks of it we have at least 4 young defensemen that could be at least NHL players, at most top pairing - top 4. There are even a few that might surprise and make a name for themselves, which also opens the door for a possible trade to beef up the forward core.
We have so much wealth on defense I'm accepting of the fact that we don't have the greatest forward prospect pool, although I do think it is decent.
That's what makes excited about him. He is very much still learning the game from a forward perspective. The offensive instincts have been there for seemingly his whole career. The question is how much can he learn still, and how well will he apply that in game. He's doesn't have the makings of a 3rd line grinder, his offensive instincts are too good for that. I think if he reaches his potential he'd be a top 6 forward. It's a big if, but I'd like to be optimistic that he can do it.
I don't know that Bell playing on the third line is a terrible thing, nor does it mean he's only a "grinder". We currently have Henrique and Ryder playing on the third line. Both are top6 talents and neither is a grinder. I think having a 3rd line RW like Bell developed by the system would be great. An offensively gifted player, built like a tank, and plays a physical game. He could be the most talented player on a 3rd line.