I think he could be a 30/30 guy if everything goes right. Although I’m starting to question if that ceiling is at all realistic. His body and skillset don’t really jive imo, he doesn’t protect the puck, drive the net or do any of the things you would expect to see a big guy do.
Most of the intrigue is the unique size and skill combo, but his size has been a complete non factor imo. He doesn’t know how to use it. I don’t think he will learn in his 20’s. His play style will be hard to change and I don’t think a 6’4” 230 lb perimeter 20 goal scorer is any more valuable than a 5’10” one.
Slaf is playing like a finesse guy, not using his physical attributes to his advantage.
Just now listening to a local weekday sports show on 98.5 FM, the host (Mario Langue-sale) mentioned that he got the net impression after he last interviewed Hughes, speaking to him both on and off air, that the Habs envision Slaf as a power forward.
To be clear, Hughes didn’t expressly say it in so many words but the host claims that it could be inferred.
The reason they’re not sending Slaf down is the org’s thinking that the best way to develop a power forward is to have him play at the NHL level.
Yes Hughes did say at the time Slaf was drafted that they were looking to what the player could be several years from now.
However, how do you get a guy to play a style that doesn’t appear to be his? When you look at NHL power forwards, most had an edge and nastiness to their game before plying their trade in the big league. They already had that foundation.
Slaf looks like someone who doesn’t want or seek to engage physically. He’s even had trouble protecting himself against opposition hits, leaving himself vulnerable in situations that most North American players would not.
Sure, he’s a project but makes you wonder if they’re not trying to turn him into something he’s not.
