A few thoughts on Daniel Pribyl as well as Calgary Flames prospects Andrew Mangiapane and Rasmus Andersson:
- As has been previously reported, Czech forward Daniel Pribyl has agreed to terms on a two-year entry-level deal with the Calgary Flames.
He was expected to compete for a roster spot in camp, although as a bit of a long shot, but will be unable to do so as he blew out his knee surgery on his ACL was necessary.
In fact, Pribyl flew to CGY to have ACL surgery done there. Should be good to go at some point early next season, expected to start in AHL.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) April 28, 2016
So, at least for a while, Pribyl isn't really in the picture. It will take him some time to get up to game speed once he returns and, on top of that, he also has to adjust to playing North American hockey.
If all goes well he performs well in Stockton when he returns and earns a recall a few weeks later but I doubt we see him until December or so at the earliest.
Still, I think Flames GM Brad Treliving was smart to take a shot on Pribyl. All it took to bring him in was a contract spot.
- The seasons of Rasmus Andersson and Andrew Mangiapane came to an abrupt halt on Wednesday night as the Barrie Colts lost to Niagara, 3-2, and were swept out of the Eastern Conference Finals in the process.
Both players are eligible to return to the OHL next season as overage players but it's probably safe to say they have both played their last junior game.
Andersson just put up consecutive 60+ point seasons in his draft year and draft+1 year, which is extremely impressive for a defenseman. His poise, decision making and ability to move the puck should allow him to make a smooth transition to the pro ranks and contribute at the AHL level right away.
Mangiapane, meanwhile, recorded 210 points in 127 regular games over his draft+1 and draft+2 seasons after tallying a very respectable 51 points in his draft year. Obviously there's no guarantee that will translate, especially as an undersized player, but I'm confident he'll be a good middle-6 forward in a few years time.
Like Andersson, I expect he'll be in Stockton next season and I think he will be able to make some meaningful offensive contributions.
Recent posts: It's time to cut ties with Lance Bouma