Re: Boston University 17-18 - thread El Segundo
When is the last year that BU fans felt this good about the freshman class performance on a go forward basis (considering that the Eichel year was going to be a one and done). I was impressed with most all Freshman and except for Tzachuk most s/b here for the longer term. I think Amonte and Cockerill give them speed and skill combo that can be a difference maker. Maybe Crone too? Any thoughts from those of you that saw the team a lot this year.
Tkachuk - came in with high expectations/pressure of being a potential top-5 pick. Had his ups and downs, I think he learned a lot playing with Greenway that will help him down the road. Made All-Rookie team, so he had a good year. He certainly needs another year at BU. I expect he'll be gone after next year, but I think that is more due to being a high pick than necessarily being completely ready for the NHL. Let's see who drafts him.
Bowers - quietly had a very good year. Reminds of JFK in terms of being a smart two way player than can play a speed game or a grinding game effectively. I see him being at BU for two more years.
Cockerill - his skill level exceeded my expectations, given that he wasn't a big scorer in Ann Arbor/Plymouth. I like that he wears #9, because his skating reminds me of a more famous #9 that recently played for us. Love his speed and overall style of play. He should be a 4 year guy, which means he could really be a huge contributor before long.
Amonte - certainly picked big games to score goals (I wonder where he got that from). I think he is the type that will be a third line guy most of his 4 years, but could crack the top 6 if he develops, or if the need arises due to injury/departure. Reminds me of Bobo - good knack for the net.
Crone - tough to get a read - he had an up and down year. Certainly not a candidate for early departure, at least based on his freshman year. He has the skill so he could elevate his game to Top 6.
Witkowski - only played 8 games.
Crotty - looked more comfortable as the year has gone on. I think we'll see huge improvement with him next year. He has a nice all around game, and the team will rely on him more. Since he is a relatively high draft pick, he could be gone after three years if he develops well.
Kotkansalo - also a draft pick, more physical/stay at home than Crotty. Should be here three years at least.
Farrance - has looked good over the last few games back on defense. I hope he is able to stick there.
) - the more I thought about it, the less it bothered me that the scenarios changed so that BU HAD to win to get in. I hate having to have the team rely on others to move on. If they won, they were in. And they did. Not sure if that was ever the case in the past. Good for them. I hope it helps them next weekend.