To say he had trouble with OHL forwards is overstating it to say the least. He had bad stretches and he certainly seemed to suffer from a lack of confidence at some points this season -- but he's really shored it up lately and seems to be back on track. He has an off-season to get bigger, stronger and more developed.
Is it likely he makes it out of camp? I don't think so -- but he could/should see some time in the NHL next season. He's got the tools and the intelligence to stick. It's whether or not he's at a mental point where he can put them to use just yet.
Also comparing Cowen and Ceci is like comparing apples and oranges. Ceci put up 60 points in his draft year (Cowen put up 21). For clarity's sake Ceci put up double the offensive numbers of Cowen's 1st post draft year in his draft year. I guess if you want to say that Ceci "dreams of being as good defensively" as Cowen was then you could say that Cowen "dreams of being as good offensively" as Ceci is. Cowen was much bigger and more defensively polished, but don't underestimate Ceci -- his defence is better than was shown at points this year. He made it a hard decision on Murray and co. this year...he'll make an even harder one of it next year.
IMO Murray and MacLean were both being positive with a first round pick, no surprise there.
I really don't believe Ceci had the remotest chance of sticking with the Sens this season, specially considering the limited 7-day training camp consisting of no exhibition games.
Truly not an appropriate evalution for any kid.
Keeping things in perspective somewhat, Ceci wasn't the best Dman at the development camp, probably ranked 3rd or 4th IMO.
People just need to accept a simply reality, most 1st round Dmen don't make it to the NHL in their first year of pro.
Considering the Sens will have Karlsson, Cowen, Methot, Wiercoich, Phillips, Gryba, Benoit, Boro, Claesson and possibly a FA signing it is a stretch to believe Ceci isn't starting next season in Binghamton.
It is possible I suppose, but not very likely.