Sadly, there are rookies that have not lived up to their initial billing, for one reason or another. The field is tough to narrow down but here are three of the players one may keep an eye on in our “Rookie Cold Watch”.
NHL Rookies On Cold Ice
Pierre-Luc Dubois — Columbus Blue Jackets — Center
As of press time, the Columbus forward had just one goal in 14 games. It does seem a little unfair to focus on a player who is only playing 11-12 minutes a night.
Columbus has given the player chances though. Dubois has not risen up the depth chart yet. He has not severely disappointed from an effort standpoint, but more from a fantasy perspective.
It will be intriguing to see how he develops as the season goes on. There are tools to work with when it comes to Dubois. The Columbus coaching staff must be able to get more out of him. His frame could still be used handily on the power play.
There is a good chance that this is a learning year in the league for Dubois. Will he get sent down at some point? That is possible. Shot and chance generation will be vital as much as the defensive part of his game. All are works in progress.
Victor Mete — Montreal Canadiens — Defenseman
Victor Mete surprised some by making the Canadiens out of camp. Mete has played some tough minutes, and that may back off some. Average ice time has been around 18 1/2 minutes a night.
The little plays that the young defenseman has been able to make have been so important. The team has started off with a huge dud which has had a negative fantasy impact on Mete. Some pundits saw him as a nice sleeper. Mete is a better stay at home defenseman with some offensive upside. Things should pick up a bit as the season goes on.
Nolan Patrick — Philadelphia Flyers — Center
Unfortunately, Patrick was the second pick of the draft. Fantasy impact would be lower given Philadelphia was going to ease him into a role. Flashes have been on display so far but three points in nine games is just okay.
Can Patrick stay healthy? That remains debatable but his ability is hard to dispute. The Philadelphia center makes plays most often do not see coming. The concussion he suffered a week ago has placed him on the injured reserve. This is just another bump in the road for Patrick who has seen his fair share over the last couple years.
The expectation is that later in the season, Patrick will gain more of a power play role which should help his numbers. On the other hand, he must learn to skate with his head up and on a swivel. Potential is high but attention to details needs some work.
NHL Rookie Watch: Three Rookies Off To A Hot Start