Unfortunately, a perfect example of a kid who was ruined by the team who drafted him, and a second team who double downed on his potential. All while they forgot to actually develop him.
He still has some time though. If he can end up committing himself to being more like Rasmussen in Detroit, then there’s a chance those hands make a comeback between 26-30, and he still has some 50+ point seasons.
He’s gonna have to make that commitment to playing more of a defensive minded role, using his size to create space for his line mates, etc. All while winning battles.
The problem is, he hasn’t developed that part of his game. So he’s a couple of years behind that 8 ball now.
So value wise, he’s really not worth much pushing 24 already. Chicago was smart getting out from under him. Not sure Montreal has any leverage here at all. Not making over $3 million. Wouldn’t be surprised if they buy him out come June. He’ll sign somewhere where they’ll try getting him to be like I explained above. Get him to be able to play on any line and contribute, even if he’s not contributing on the scoresheet. They get him to that point, like I said, with those hands, you never know.
They’d be lucky to get a 3rd right now. It’s one thing to pay a 3rd liner who’s really good at what he does, over $3 million. To pay him over $3 million to be a placeholder? Not many teams are gonna be interested.
