Re: Boston University 2011-2012: Part The Sixth
I think Clendening is a leaving a year too soon, especially given his age. Another year in college would have helped him mature as a player and as a young adult, which would have better prepared him for life on the road (and likely the minors, for a year).
The Blackhawks originally wanted him to stay another year, as well.
Unless the family needed the money now, he should have stayed another year.
He made great progress, especially with his consistency, during his sophomore year. Another year, and he could have gone straight to being a NHL regular like Shattenkirk.
I wish him well, and hope that he has made a good decision for him, or if not, that he can overcome it.