stud_defenseman 1 Report post Posted July 30, 2008 Though I have never been able to watch a GR game as I live in Toronto I have been for the last few years reading up on our prospects and following their progression. One player who I am curious about is Kindl. Two years ago he was projected to be potentially a #1 or #2 D-man as he was excellent in the OHL, but now he seems to have taken a step back since joining the AHL. Is it still generally accepted that he is going to be able to step up into a prominent role in the NHL or is it begining to look like he may not have what it takes. His stats last year were far from impressive, but I'm hoping someone can give me some insight as to why they think he might be struggling, and if it looks like this is something he can turn around in the upcoming season. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sjradio 0 Report post Posted July 31, 2008 After watching the team off and on last year I can say with the exception of Helm and Ericcson. NOBODY on the Griffins did that well. Some of it had to do with coaching, Stothers didn't do a good job of putting the players in the right situation and had problems keeping the team focused after the horrible start of the season. Stothers was a junior coach and his systems didn't work. As much as I really don't like the hiring of Curt Fraser, I think that he at least knows what it takes to motivate professional players and how to get the most from them. Kindl is a work in progess. I have seen times where he was the best player on the ice... And other times where he should have been the first of a few players on the bench. He's got to get to a level where he is playing in as many different situations and getting better each and every time. That's what development is.... He's got to get better. If you look at the players on D ahead of him on the depth chart. He's got a long way to go. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest Dump-N-Thump Report post Posted July 31, 2008 I saw Kindl a few times this year and i didn't see a player with a -20+ tbh.. I saw a player who is still fighting the maturity battle. I expect a semi-break out year. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Coyote0106 2 Report post Posted July 31, 2008 He had a rough start to the year..and couldn't dig his way out on the +/- column. He would have a couple good nights then have one horrible one and be back to where he was. He definitely has potential...I, too, expect him to improve greatly this year. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Swede40 0 Report post Posted August 2, 2008 Kindl needs atleast 1 more year in Grand Rapids,,,as does Ericsson wether he fit under the cap or not. The dude just strted learning the defensive game and needs to play all the time. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
heyfolks 8 Report post Posted August 5, 2008 The Kitchener coach said ... Kitchener coach Peter DeBoer calls Kindl "arguably the best defenseman" in the OHL. The kid was a monster then. Yet he is known for slow starts. Well the Griffins had the wrong coach, the wrong mix and a season that can only be described as disastrous. Yet his -34 was a league worst. Not exactly the way you want to enter the minor lauges. That said, this kid has 2 more years in GR to get ready. When he does he will grow into that 6'3" frame and weight about 220, learn to use his body more effectively and, to not to make the mistake coming out of the zone. He is still a top prospect with top 4 potential. I really like this kid. I think he can be a top line guy. Yet, the Wings top 4 is set for 3-5 years. They have to decide what to do with Meech and Quincey this season, and Ericcson is a lock for a spot next season. Next is Pyett. Then kindl, then, then smith. The wings are set on d. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
stud_defenseman 1 Report post Posted August 5, 2008 thanks guys. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
