The Tampa Bay Lightning has asked me to be a part of the organization’s Blogger Roundtable. This new feature, which has a number of independent writers weigh in on issues surrounding the team, will be a weekly column on the team’s website.
Today's question has to do with the team's third overall pick, Jonathan Drouin. With so much talent, Drouin is certainly going to be a valued member of the Lightning organization for years to come. The question right now is what kind of impact he can have next season. Below, I've posted my answer; you can check out the rest of the responses
right here.
With the third overall selection in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft, the Lightning selected forward Jonathan Drouin, a skater who is known as a playmaker and a great passer. Both Al Murray and TSN analyst Bob McKenzie said Drouin has a special innate ability. What do you think his impact will be for the Lightning next season?
The Lightning walked away from Sunday's draft with a great player in Jonathan Drouin. With his hockey IQ, vision, and undeniable skill, he projects to be a long-term fit on the wing for the Lightning. As early as next season, I would expect Drouin to challenge for a spot on the team's second line. Due to the plethora of talented wingers in the Lightning's system, the team has the luxury of not having to overwork Drouin or rush his development out of necessity. He can develop at his own pace with some of the world's elite offensive players alongside him; in my opinion, this is a huge plus. With Jon Cooper at the helm behind the bench and Drouin's natural (read: fantastic) abilities, I have no doubt in my mind that this young player will be an amazing fit with the Lightning when the puck drops this Fall. Welcome to the Lightning, Jonathan!
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Now it's time for you to have your say. What kind of impact will Drouin have next year? Where do you see him fitting in? Let me know in the comments section.
As always, thanks for reading!
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