CallArnoldSlick
Party Fowl
- May 21, 2010
- 559
- 607
I doubt we give Poulin more than a look, because this team seems intent on its prospects getting at least a year in the AHL to acclimate to professional hockey's speed/intensity, but I wouldn't be surprised if he played well enough in camp and pre-season to make the coaching staff and front office have to think about keeping him around.
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The Poulin spot is probably the one I question most, because again, this team seems against allowing a prospect to step in and learn/develop at this level without an AHL experience first.
To be fair, the Penguins haven't really had 19-year-old former first round picks available to play in recent years. Daniel Sprong (second round) was given 18 games at 18. His usage can be debated, but he got a chance in the lineup. Poulin plays a style of hockey coaches will prefer to Sprong, so that should help him. Kapanen was traded before he got a chance to play at 19. Maatta and Pouliot were the last first round picks before that. Maatta played 78 games at 19.
Poulin can't play in the AHL this year, so it's not like he's getting that experience any time soon. I think he'll get a look. He took a big step forward in the Q last year. I agree, he's far from guaranteed a roster spot though.