THW NHL Prospects & Draft Substack - Oct. 15, 2023
Welcome to the THW NHL Prospects & Draft Substack newsletter, with all the latest from our great team of writers.
In today’s edition, we have a look at David Jiricek’s big break, the reasons the Blackhawks should keep Korchinski in the NHL, expectations for Faber’s rookie year, and much more!
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Now on to the good stuff…
Blue Jackets’ David Jiricek Has Golden Opportunity
October 14, 2023 by William Espy
The Columbus Blue Jackets had a rough opening night. Not only did they fall to the Philadelphia Flyers 4-2, but they also lost star defenseman Zach Werenski to injury once again. He missed most of last season with a torn labrum, luckily this time it’s a much less severe injury. He was diagnosed with a quadriceps contusion and is expected to be out for one or two weeks.
In response to the injury, the Blue Jackets called up top defensive prospect David Jiricek, who was expected to start the season in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Cleveland Monsters. Although it’s under less-than-ideal circumstances, Jiricek has a golden opportunity to prove that he deserves to stay in the NHL going forward. It’s time for Jiricek to show that he’s a legitimate NHL player.
Blackhawks Should Keep Kevin Korchinski in the NHL
October 13, 2023 by Connor Smith
Lost in the Connor Bedard frenzy has been Kevin Korchinski’s debut with the Chicago Blackhawks. After weeks of speculation, the 19-year-old defenseman skated in his first two regular season NHL games this week, and he has looked the part. Though it’s early, the Blackhawks would be wise to keep him in Chicago this season, as opposed to sending him back to the Western Hockey League (WHL).
For the Blackhawks, this season is all about growth and development. It may be a while before Korchinski becomes a top-pairing defenseman as many fans hope, but keeping him on the NHL roster is the best decision for his development.
Coyotes’ Cooley Has Real Shot at Calder Trophy
October 13, 2023 by Cooper Krigbaum
When it was announced Arizona Coyotes’ prospect Logan Cooley would be heading back to Bob Motzko’s Minnesota for his second collegiate season, most weren’t surprised. This decision would suddenly eliminate him from the Calder Trophy race in 2023-24, which has loads of skill, all racing for the Rookie of the Year honors. However, after much reflecting, it became clear where Cooley wanted to play.
It became clear where general manager (GM) Bill Armstrong wanted him to play. It was in Arizona. It was in a Kachina. He’s shown at every level to adapt effortlessly and adjust when needed. The question still remains: will he be able to do that in the NHL in hopes of claiming the holy grail in the Calder Trophy?
Wild’s Faber Needs Realistic Expectations in Rookie Season
October 12, 2023 by Mariah Stark (Holland)
With the Minnesota Wild’s regular season starting today (Oct. 12), there will be expectations for every player in the lineup. Of course, certain players will be under more pressure than others, but it’s important to remember that some players are just starting in the NHL. Players like Marco Rossi and Brock Faber will be playing their first full NHL seasons, and they’ll have some big expectations on their shoulders.
It’s easy to expect more from Rossi since fans saw him play in 19 games last season, and everyone concluded there was another level he could reach. Faber is more unknown; he played in eight games last season and looked great but didn’t have time to get comfortable. While it’s okay to expect great things from him, it’s essential to keep those expectations realistic and not get disappointed if he doesn’t reach them.
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