bobermay
Registered User
But because Nielsen wasn't on any WHL team until his NHL draft year, he didn't have these benefits. Both Nielsen and Middleton started playing Major Junior the same year then, so judging him by the added benefits of being a late '96 doesn't apply to him.
Like I said, and what you said, Nielsen's growth is shown when you really break it down even further, he's impressive. Middleton hopefully improves his skating and hopefully develops a deeper skill set.
I don't think people are saying Middleton is better than Nielsen. We are just stating Middleton has been in a better league at a younger age... (Thus possibly influencing statistical outputs).
This is a statement based on looking at numbers and not actual play. Again, we're not arguing who is better, just stating who has been playing tougher competition.