A lot of people questioned why the wings gave him a contract so early, but watching him play I can see why.
He has absolutely blazing speed, maybe not quite as fast as Helm but hes on a Mursak level for sure. He is physical (probably more consistently physical than Helm) and he can PK really good too because of his speed. He may not be that big scoring winger everyone thought he should be, but for a second round pick and seeing this kid play a lot this season, I think another Darren Helm is waiting in the wings.
Hes finding his stride in Grand Rapids and has 8 points in his last 9 games, pretty good off the fourth line. He already has more goals and points than Mursak did in his Grand Rapids rookie year, and is on pace for just about what Helm had in his. I remember one goal he blew around the defenseman and absolutely shelfed the puck, still seems to have that natural finish Helm never has had
Hes also not scared to fight a bit, hes not the best fighter but could probably help handle the pests at the NHL level
He'll do things like this http://www.hockeyfig...m/fights/107200 , stepping up and protecting the teams best dman.
Overall I think we're looking at another Helm type player, maybe a bit more offensive and not quite as amazing on the PK but a guy who will become a fan favourite. He's really impressed me so far with that offensive punch he has given the griffins fourth line.
2nd round pick not wasted
















