http://forecaster.thehockeynews.com/player/5601Take it for what it's worth...
Quote:
ASSETS:
Moves the puck quickly and efficiently--and also likes to join the rush. Has a decent frame, plus mobility and passing skills. Can also shoot quite well from the point. Is willing to play a physical game.
FLAWS:
Needs to play with more consistency from game to game, especially in terms of using the body regularly and in defensive-zone coverage. His skating and decision-making need more improvement.
CAREER POTENTIAL:
Quality puck-moving defenseman.
I don't know if his play fell off a cliff per se but I think when Florida added him in addition to Yandle while also dumping Campbell and Kulikov, it made the D way too one-dimensional. Ekblad's regression was much more alarming.
One thing's for sure--Dallas struggled mightily to replace the hole he left in the lineup last season.
Can't believe a Demers-for-Gudbranson deal almost went down. And why in hell would Demers choose ARZ over VAN?