Can't wait to see him in training camp. He's not eligible to play in the AHL next year because of his age so it's NHL or back to the OHL.
Last year, I thought Zacha should definitely be in the NHL as there wasn't much more for him to learn in the OHL (also wasn't AHL eligible).. but not sure about McLeod. He seems to be dominating of late. Depends how good the Steelheads project to be next year, maybe. Might be good enough right now to compete for a roster spot.
What a playoffs so far for Michael McLeod. Looks like a finals appearance is on the horizon. Fantastic series for him so far with 6 points in 3 games against the Petes.
He should definitely get the training camp and a few NHL games to start next year, but since he is the type of prospect who requires top minutes at this stage of development (rather than being ushered into a third line role in NJ), Id like to see him go back to the OHL after preseason and a few RS NHL games. He will have a top 6 role at the WJCs to look forward to (he improved greatly after last years WJC), and a likely spot on Canada's Olympic team, since NHL players are not going to attend.
It's a tough call, but I think another year in the OHL would be best for McLeod's development. Honestly, I think he has the potential to be a really special player the way he can carry the puck with speed. At this stage of the game, I think heavy minutes would be best for his development and Mississauga will be a great situation for him. He could be the team's leader, best player, top line center, and one of the best players in the OHL next year. Additionally, he would be a lock for the WJC and be a top line player for Canada most likely.
Obviously the AHL would be ideal for a guy like him, but unfortunately with the rules that just can't happen.
It's a tough call, but I think another year in the OHL would be best for McLeod's development. Honestly, I think he has the potential to be a really special player the way he can carry the puck with speed. At this stage of the game, I think heavy minutes would be best for his development and Mississauga will be a great situation for him. He could be the team's leader, best player, top line center, and one of the best players in the OHL next year. Additionally, he would be a lock for the WJC and be a top line player for Canada most likely.
Obviously the AHL would be ideal for a guy like him, but unfortunately with the rules that just can't happen.
I didn't think this series would be this lopsided.
Still got one game left, but I'm very curious to see how McLeod and the Steelheads look against Erie.
He's absolutely dominating the OHL playoffs, he has nothing left to prove at that level. He's NHL ready at this point, I don't see the point of sending him back down.
He definitely has something to prove still at this level. Mitch Marner went back after a 2.0 PPG season. Mikey has yet to even score 30 goals in a season. He's having a great playoff but short of being able to play in the AHL their is no reason to rush him.
Marner was never sent back for his draft +2 year though. I would be careful sending McLeod back, especially if the team somehow wins the league/Memorial Cup and accomplishes everything this year. There's always the option to send him back down if necessary. Regardless, I think this will boil down to his offseason and training camp performance.
Yea, but Marner as a draft+1 player was a much better player than McLeod.
Yea, but Marner as a draft+1 player was a much better player than McLeod.
Yea, but Marner as a draft+1 player was a much better player than McLeod.
More. More than anyone.I'm glad that he's showing good signs. New Jersey needs top six forwards as much anyone.
Whiskey just has to **** on McLeod. Just his thing.