The question is why Simashev, But or Gulyayev weren't? Is there another reason the his nationality which would justify putting Michkov on a ''no draft list'', it's particularly weird considering the Habs drafted 2 russian players in later rounds.
Obviously, I share the disapointment about the pick, I prefered Benson, Leonard, Dvorsky and many others. However, why the f*** would a fan write to the kid himself? He just played hockey at the best of his ability it's not his fault, it's the Habs management's fault
It's simple. Interviews are important. If you can't interview a guy or if he tells you to get lost where the sun don't shine then you gotta ask yourself if you wanna draft this guy. Especially knowing about all the other issues...
Leonard I can sort of understand because he's a very complete player and those are rare. Having said that, he's likely a winger in the NHL and his hands are average. His stats are misleading as well because he was facing weak competition and was carried by his linemates.
Dvorsky and Benson both have serious bust potential. Benson is small, soft and I'm not sure he has the skillset to make up for that. It's very good but not special. Also has a lot to learn against the puck.
Dvorsky is an intriguing prospect but likely also a winger in the NHL. Also, he played a very poor draft season. His transition to pro hockey failed initially. He was a turnovermachine and his scoring was very underwhelming. Statwise, Reinbacher played a very similar season a year ago. Last season, Reinbacher had almost the same amount of primary assists as Dvorsky points. Reinbacher outscored Dvorksy. Of course we're talking defenseman vs. forward and the forward played in a tier 2 league while the defenseman played in one of Europe's top leagues
So for conclusion...I can see arguments for Leonard since he's a unique player but he doesn't have the ceiling of a Reinbacher. Leonard will never be a 1C, maybe fringe 1W or 2C while Reinbacher's ceiling is 1RD and he's pretty much guaranteed to be a 2RD given how good he is already. Of course, franchise RD's are very rare and hard to find.
Dvorksy and Benson may have huge upside but are also bust candidates. They're both projects and if they're gonna hit they're gonna take time. Those are the type of guys you take in the backhalf of the 1st round and I think it was a mistake to take Dvorksy at 10.