SkepticismSkep"ti*cism\, n. [Cf. F. scepticisme.] [Written also scepticism.]
1. An undecided, inquiring state of mind; doubt; uncertainty.
That momentary amazement, and irresolution, and confusion, which is the result of skepticism. --Hune.
Here are five reasons to not be skeptical of Pascal Leclaire.
- Entry to NHL - Unlike Martin Gerber, Pascal Leclaire was actually sought after in the NHL entry draft, he went eighth overall in the 2001, compared to Martin Gerber who was drafted in the eighth round in the same draft.
- FCG - French Canadian Goalie.
- Age - at only 26, he is on the cusp of being in his prime. Goalies always take longer to mature and become consistent, what we are getting is someone who has four years of NHL experience under his belt. Not too shabby if you also consider the three(ish) years he has played in the AHL as well.
- Skill - Leclaire has shown that at every level he has played, the ability to adapt and become one of the best. People are worried about him being the next Martin Gerber, because he has only shown he can play well in "one" season. Well that's erroneous as well. Take into account the injuries he has sustained while at the NHL level (also the fact that Columbus has been a horrible franchise) and his numbers are really good. In the 07-08 season, he posted 9 shutouts! Just because he has had some surgery, does not mean his skill has all but disappeared. I seem to remember a player we traded for that had just gotten into a serious car accident, and now look at him.
- The Ottawa hockey market - After playing in the QJMHL and for team Canada in the World Championships, he should be able to integrate well into the team, and pressure should not be as big of an issue for him as it was for Gerber (who wilted standing next to warm piece of toast). This may be the most intense hockey market he has played in, but with his pedigree, level of skill and FCG status, he will have every opportunity to be the best goaltender the Senators have ever had.
He could always become a bust, but every indication is that he won't and this trade could really turn around the position that has always been a liability, into one of strength.
1 comment:
I also look at what the Leafs got for Dominic Moore, who is putting up better numbers than Vermette this year. Yes he is UFA and Vermette has another year, and yes he's older and maybe has less potential .. however they only got a 2nd Rnd pick for a guy that wanted around the same dollars as Vermette. we also got a guy that has potential to be an elite goalie. Unless Leclaire is a huge bust and we draft poorly with this #45ish pick, then this was a shrewd deal. If Vermette gets a 70 point season in his career it won't be with Columbus. Does 40 draft positions = a first rnd #8 pick? (That's how far Moore was drafted below Vermette in 2000)
The only bust I want to see is below in that Calgary shirt. Yum!
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