This was a ridiculous year for the Petes to draft a player who won't report. I think it can be a good strategy at times, namely when you're in a position to win and your first round pick is going to have a tough time cracking the lineup anyway, you kickstart your rebuild for after the big push by having two first round picks the year after you're all in.
To do it when your best player is a 17 year old is asinine. The #1 priority should have been players to build around Nick Robertson but instead they punt the best chance to add an elite player to go alongside him a year down the road.
The other problem that is going forward that might be underrated with fans but not in the hockey circles is Don Barrie putting out that article
Will Cuylle should have to sit out Ontario Hockey League season if he doesn’t report to Peterborough Petes
This did some damage whether you agree with it or not. It didn't do any favors for Petes recruitment.
Now anytime a player is selected in the draft and is having 2nd thoughts (These players have options) is that player going to have to worry about local media putting out an article calling him entitled and what not? Might seam small to us but it's not.
The good news for the Petes is, deal him and move forward. I saw someone suggest earlier (maybe on an earlier thread) to not trade him and let him sit which would be idiotic.
Victor Mete told OS he wasn't going to report and they took him anyways. OS Traded him to London and in the 1st round the next season selected Nick Suzuki and Markus Phillips. OS opened up a 3 year window with that trade (And some solid drafting) Take the boat load of picks you are going to get and be smart about who you select in next years draft. Next years draft could be one of the most crucial drafts in Petes history if they hit on their own 1st round pick, the comp pick, depending on the picks you get for Cuylle, I imagine you would want a near 2nd rounder in the package.
Wish you guys the best moving forward. Can't wait to get back up to Peterborough for a game. Honestly it is my favorite arena in the league. Not the most comfortable but the HOF is cool. It's unique and met some great fans.