You are consistent in that argument.
There are exceptions to the rule, especially with scorers (Robitaille is always the best example, followed Brett Hull) and you then get the elite speedsters who produce little like Mete, but, yes, if you can't skate with the big boys, your impact is usually hampered at the NHL level.
No question. But I think it is poor strategy to base a re-building / personnel strategy on a hoped for exception.
In my long association with this game the immutable fact is that the single, most important distinction between house league and rep players; “A” and “AAA” players ; Junior A and CHL players and AHL and NHL players is their comparative skating abilities.
There are, of course, exceptions but I prefer to be guided in my decision making by pursuing probabilities rather than possibilities. Hence my position, that as of today, Tuch, who already has NHL level skating ( plus other positive traits such as size and physicality) will probably make the NHL before the more ‘skillful’ Florian Xhekaj.
I, like many here, was curious about this kid when we drafted him. I read those all too superficial scouting reports that depicted Florian as a large, rugged, and physical player who projected as a possible bottom 6 forward in the NHL. He was regarded as Xhekaj ‘Lite’.
Then I started to follow him in Branford and realized that this kid was no thug, but possessed above average straightforward speed and hockey skills. He was even playing on the Bulldogs powe play. Heck, he was even running the power play from the right point position. After watching Florian play for a couple of weeks I boldly suggested that Team Canada officials should have this kid on their radar as a player who could provide speed, skill and size to Canada’s WJC entry instead of the smallish, slow plugs that they usually seemed so enchanted with. I thought that Florian had more than enough skating, size and skill to be a factor ( certainly a physically intimidating one) against players of his own age group.
It is good to see Florian starting to flourish against pro level competition in the AHL. Its also instructive to see the Laval coaching staff place greater in game responsibilities on this young player.
Nevertheless, unless Florian improves his quickness , agility and edge work, he will not be able create the time and space he needs to flash very underestimated hockey skills at the next level. The goal he scored last game from what appeared to be an impossible angle, was no fluke. He makes multiple, creative plays every game. He sees the ice well. Florian has now caught up to the speed and pace of the AHL. He’s becoming more noticeable. Florian is no mere bottom line fill-in. He’s becoming a key player for the Rocket.
I think his upward trajectory will continue. While it probably not happen this year or even next year, this kid will be playing in Montreal and will be playing an important role.
Have I ever been wrong before?
