That what I was saying above. I value others above Tkachuk but I wouldn't at all be mad or upset if we drafted him at 3. At least not as much as the people on this thread. I also agree about the numbers comparison thing because NCAA and CHL are totally different. People highlight that Tkachuk only had 8 goals but don't talk about how he hd 23 assists. In my opinion, he is going to score in the NHL regardless. He will get lots of second chance goals and tip ins. Then there is his playmaking which is extremely underrated. I can see him being a 25-35 type player. I know people will say that other prospects have higher potential. I agree with you. But that's no reason to hate on Tkachuk because he is going to be a bit less of a scorer. Tkachuk will affect the game in so much more ways than anyone in the top 10 if you ask me. Whether it has to do with scoring or not. Im not saying I want Tkachuk as much as I do others because I don't but I will still be happy if his name is called at 3OA. If you look at most top 10's there is usually a few busts here and there. I feel like Tkachuk has the worst odds of busting considering the way he plays. If you guys consider a hard working passionate player who will do anything to help his team a bust, then I don't know what else to say to make you think about him differently.
Tom Wilson is a very strong guy who does all the dirty work on the lines he is on, he is very strong on the puck, a great forechecker, a physical beast and can skate... you dont win with skilled players alone, you need a bit of everything to build a strong line-up.. But, I agree that we shouldnt pass on talent if they fill Timmins criteras...
The problem most people have with Tkachuk is that he has demonstrated that he can be a high end complimentary player. When he has a high end centre he produces well... Like at the wjhc. But when he doesn't he gets out produced by another draft eligible defensemen.... Like in the NCAA. The problem allot of us have with picking a high end complimentary player at third overall is that we have nobody for him to complement. That's why you are seeing so much support for guys like Kotkaniemi, Dobson, Boqvist, Hughes ect. They are at least as talented and play more valuable positions and are play drivers.
My fear is that Bergy sees the wiring on the wall and interferes with Timmins. I can see Bergy loving Tkachuk, and convincing himself that Tkachuk is what Drouin needs on his wing to make him a legit centre.... With the real motivating factor being self preservation and saving face. Basically I can see Bergy doubling down on stupid rather than admitting fault and rebuilding properly. So I must admit I don't like your percentages..... But I agree with them.
