Roughneck said:
That's what I see too. I would rather have a player with great offensive spark and have them learn defense with a year in the AHL (see Matthew Lombardi). But I'll take it. Rather have him as a good 3rd line grinder than not on the team at all.
That is an interesting way to look at Lombardi. Lombardi was a defensive player starting out in the Q, then started to use his offensive skills more. I'm not sure why you think he didn't know how to play defence until one season in the AHL. It takes along time to learn that very important aspect of the game. It isn't something taught over night, like many of you beleive is the case.
I hate the fact that people always through out the mantra "defence can be taught" Sure it can, but not at the high level that Nystrom plays it. Some players are born with a high defensive awareness, just like some have a high offensive awareness.
Nystrom regressing? Is point totals have gone down over the past two years but his play has gone up up up. He is probably the most valuable player for the Wolverines, just ask his coach. This guy will be an oh so valuable 3rd line guy for a contending team, or 2nd line player for a weaker team. He is a real warrior, but doesn't get his due prospect wise because he isn't a scorer. There is alot more to the game then scoring. Nystrom is a leader, an amazing two-way game, big time grinder, and can also put up the points. In fact, if anyone would bother looking at the stats they would notice Nystrom has 30 points in 34 games this season, most of you are now suprised.