By mid-season, you could tell a star was pressing. By mid-season, GM Dale Tallon had to be wondering what happened to last year's Calder Trophy winner, Jonathan Huberdeau.
In 48 games last season, mostly while nursing a hip injury, Huberdeau recorded 14 goals and 17 assists on a very bad team. This year in 69 games he had 9 goals and 19 assists in what can only be described as a head-scratcher. There were multiple long stretches of no points, and one of the most talented players on the roster looked rather ordinary.
Towards the end of the season, Huberdeau's frustration level was up and so was his physical play. But the question remained as to why he struggled so badly this season.
Soon after last season ended he underwent hip surgery, which he spent most of the summer rehabbing. As the questions began swirling around his struggles, the logical explanation was that he still wasn't "right" after the surgical procedure. But he denied that and most of the time looked just as bewildered as the fans and media.
What is to make of this?
Should Tallon be alarmed?
Can a player with this much talent go an entire season without showing a glimpse of the player he really is?
Few people would argue that Huberdeau can become a 30-goal scorer in this league, especially with many talented pieces being placed around him in Florida. But will he recover from this fall from grace? Is it all just in his head? Is he too small?
If there is anything to take away from this season it is that Huberdeau needs to get bigger and stronger. While he has no problem taking it to the net, I saw a lot of David Booth in him this year with outside, poor-percentage shots. As the team continues to get bigger he needs to play bigger.
The obvious frustration from Huberdeau during the season was a clear indication he is not happy in any way with his performance. Perhaps he redefined the good ole "Sophomore Slump."
Should a player like himself be immune to such superstitions? Fans would hope so. But the numbers don't lie, and it is hard to think it could ever get any worse for such a talent.
What do you think the problem was for Huberdeau this season? As always, your comments and input is appreciated.
Dan Spiegel Florida Panthers Media Follow me on Twitter Join the Florida Panthers Insiders FB Page Connect with me on Google Plus