Ouellet

[captain2005 32]

Excited fort he playoffs, (last year was the first one i really payed attention too, hopefully this year goes better).

Just curious if anyone know what happened to Xavier Ouellet. I thought he played very solid earlier in the year, and then when they brought up Marchenko everyone forgot about him. Why isn't he playing instead of Big E, or at least being rotated in .

[FifeHockeyNut 57]

I think that Oullet played well in his time with the wings. Marchenko shooting right definitely gives him a slight edge at this time. Going in to the playoffs I don't think we can go with 2 rookie defensmen.Would be good for Xavier to play some Calder Cup playoffs and be called up if required. If there is an injury to the D, he gets called upon before Kindl (and even Smith) for me.

[jeff48109 474]

does he shoot right?

[Dominator2005 558]

XO is lefty

[themcityblues 249]

He was fairly good in last year's playoffs. I wouldn't be concerned if they brought him up. Would be a good opportunity. Probably won't be our worst defenseman

[WhiteLightning91 105]

I think the management is satisfied with what they have seen from XO. They know what they have with him and are pleased with his performance. Unfortunately for him, like others have said, Marchenko is in the same boat, except he can paddle on the other side, which is slightly more important to Babcock I'd imagine. If another injury happens, Ouellet would be the first one called upon I would imagine. Until then, they want him to be playing over 20mins a game down in GR for their playoff run rather than around 15mins up here.