Being deep into camp now, probably time for our first update on these two players, who will be linked forever more..
From everything I’ve been hearing, talking to Winnipeg guys this week, the Jets have been more than pleased with how Yager has performed, and although he’ll likely be sent back to the WHL this season, it sure does look like Yager has a nice future ahead of himself in Winnipeg. In fact, if their situation and depth were a little different, they’d have no problem keeping Brayden Yager. He’s played pretty well with a goal and assist in a couple of games, but it’s his responsible two way game, and his work ethic that impresses the Jets even more. Add in the fact he wants to play in Winnipeg, they can’t be more happier with the deal.
As for McGroarty, he hasn’t been horrible or anything, but he clearly needs some time to adjust to playing pro hockey. He’s shown a couple of flashes but people obviously were led to believe they’d see more from him at this stage.
It also sounds like the Pens may have already made their decision to send him down and let him find his game in the AHL.
In no way is this a negative on McGroarty as a prospect. More so on the people who listened more to the media than actual scouts and evaluators, who’ve been pretty consistent over the last year, that McGroarty is gonna likely need some time in the AHL.
That appears where he’s headed unless something changes for the Pens over the next week or so. What they don’t want to do, is force him at this point.
Sometimes Managers aren’t on the same page as coaches with young players. Hopefully Dubas doesn’t try to make this one of those battles. If Sullivan thinks he needs more time, he likely needs more time. Sometimes that’s only 10-20 games and a young player’s confidence grows enough, and he finds a way to be more defensively responsible. Especially if he was pushing things to impress people. Sometimes just relaxing and finding your game, is all that’s needed.
One thing’s for certain and maybe this situation will help some of those fans realize it. Success in the NCAA and/or Major Juniors, does not mean a player is NHL ready, or automatically better than other prospects. Every situation is it’s own unique set of circumstance. Especially with offensively gifted players who generate their offense in secondary ways. Meaning not one on one, creating their own space and shot. Those type of players will generally transfer straight into the league. That’s not McGroarty and never has been.
It’s safe to say Yager will have another dominant Junior year and represent Team Canada come World Juniors. Then we’ll see where he’s at next year at this time, or even late this season
As for McGroarty, keeping him in the NHL might do more harm then good. If they do, we’ll just have to follow and see how it goes.
Sounds like they’re gonna be smart and send him down though. I’ll guess he settles things down by Xmas time and his game starts to grow from there.. Then it’ll just be a matter of time before he gets his NHL chance. If they’re smart they’ll keep him down there and let his game evolve into being a really good 200’ player. That way when they do bring him up, it’ll be for good.