I think because we are likely to get Eichel some people are making themselves believe he is neck in neck with McDavid when he really isn't. He's a phenomenal talent absolutely which allows you to make some sort of argument for him, however McDavid is generational and is undoubtably a step ahead
I don't buy this comment at all. And, separately (not directed at the quoted poster), all of the AINEC stuff is nonsense. I wonder how many saying AINEC have actually watched these two significantly. Maybe come next spring it'll be different, but right now it's very, very close. A few months ago I didn't have enough viewing time of either player to provide an intelligent assessment, but I spent this summer focusing on these two players in my free time. Video, admittedly, which isn't as good as seeing them live (but it was free!). As of today, I would take McDavid slightly over Eichel, but like I said, it's close IMO. Both are fantastic and, if we want to stick with labels, can be described as "generational" to the extent that means anything.
Furthermore, last season I spoke with two pro scouts I know and respect, which I may have mentioned on here. Both at that time would've taken Eichel straight up. Well, oddly enough I ran into one of them this past weekend in an airport and the opinion is unchanged. Like I said, right now I give a personal edge to McDavid, but both are just unbelievably talented, with a remarkable ability to make those around them better, even those they don't regularly play with. Huh? For example, Dylan Strome is a very talented kid with a great frame, and he plays on a different line, but there's no question in my mind he's seriously benefiting from having McDavid on his team, via mutual PP time, favorable matchups, opposing team game planning, etc. The name John Cullen springs to mind. Making others around them that much better is the key to these two. The constant AINEC comment is ridiculous, even if you favor McDavid, which I do at this point. Both are world class right now.
