I think he'll land a spot on the roster this season. If he's improved from last season, I don't see why not. Obviously they wouldn't want to burn a year off his ELC by having him sit in the press box half the time, but I don't think that will happen.
It would be nice if we just send him to the marlies instead, but stupid rules and whatnot state that he has to go back to junior first. Which is kind of pointless, since he'd probably out play just about everyone in that league at this point.
It all comes down to training camp. IMO, he makes it though. He was one of the last players cut at the previous camp. With a full season of juniors, as well as some AHL play time to boot, he'd be ready to crack the lineup this season.