Stutzle is on pace for better rookie numbers than Suzuki had and Suzuki came in 2 years after his draft

That would be a nice result for Ottawa. Personally, I feel like Laf got the short end of the stick, given that he hadn't played a competitive game since last March. That's a big jump. I get that there was a possibility of injury at the WJC, but man, the guy needed some ice time. I feel really bad for Byfield too.

I think Byfield getting AHL minutes is perfect for him. The OHL is a joke for him but he’s really not ready for an NHL role. I really wasn’t impressed with him in the WJC and I like him as a guy and as a player. Too bad he can’t stay in the AHL all year. Yeah Laf should’ve played in the WJC but look what happened to Dach , it sucks

Agreed. I feel the same way with Drysdale. He definitely is ready to play pro (AHL, not NHL), so it's a shame he can't stay. Although, it may all be a moot point...I won't be 100% convinced that the OHL is going to go until the puck actually drops.

I wonder though, if LA/Anaheim (And whichever other teams are in similar situations), will end up saying "F*ck it", promote the Byfield/Drysdale types, and just play them (Or keep them in the press box) for the 8ish games at the end of the year. Certainly wouldn't hurt in either of those teams situations since they're not trending towards being playoff teams (LEARN TO FRIGGIN' BURY THE PUCK IN THE NET YOU GD DUCKS!)

Wouldnt be a bad idea to keep Drysdale and go 11/7 and play him as a 7th D with PP mins. And he practices with NHL players

Agreed. I'm just happy he's playing right now (And pretty well!). I'm pumped for Zegras to debut sometime in the next 20 years or so as well.