Aaron Portzline wrote an incredible story that came out Monday regarding Jackets prospect Carson Meyer.
Meyer’s year was a struggle. He battled fatigue all season and doctors were unable to figure out why. Meyer later found out that he had a 25 inch tape worm that had been in his body for likely over a year. Meyer wasn’t able to keep his strength up, he lost a lot of weight and his on the ice play took a big dip. He went from 26 points in 32 games last season as a freshman, to 10 points in 34 games as a sophomore.
Off the ice Meyer battled depression and had issues with the coaching staff at Miami University (Ohio). He needs a fresh start and has already reached an agreement to transfer to Ohio State.
This is a great get for the Buckeyes and a great fresh start for Meyer.
However per NCAA rules, transfer players have to sit out a year, unless they can persuade the NCAA to waive the waiting period. Meyer given his situation certainly has a valid reason for transferring. However the NCAA is strict and may very well not let Meyer play next season.
Having to sit out a year, after what Meyer just went through is not ideal. For the sake of his development he needs to be playing hockey next season, but what options does he have?
Usually with NCAA prospects if there is a problem they can transfer to the CHL. Meyer unfortunately as 1997 born player is too old for the CHL, taking that option off the table.
He could explore his options overseas. There are plenty of pro leagues in Europe and perhaps one of them might take a chance on Meyer.
The other alternative would be the Jackets sign Meyer and put him into either the AHL or ECHL. This would allow the Jackets to monitor Meyer closely and ensure he’s healthy and can help him get back to what he was a couple years ago. The downside to this is that Meyer as a 6th round pick isn’t a high end prospect. Signing him could be a wasted roster spot if he turns out to be a non-prospect.
The number one option is definitely stay in the NCAA and not miss a year. If that doesn’t come to fruition then Europe would be the best alternative, should Meyer want to go that route. That would allow him to continue to play a high level of hockey, and it would be a completely brand new start. For the Jackets they wouldn’t have to sign him and they would continue to hold his rights for another two seasons. They could continue to monitor and evaluate his progress and see if he can become a real NHL prospect.
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