Matt Duchene

Pros: Superior speed (pre knee injury) and stick handling and playmaking abilities. Potential game breaker every time he hits the ice. Very creative center has two way potential.

Cons: Needs to simplify his game and better utilize his linemates. Tends to take the weight of the world on his shoulders and tries to force things. Has yet to find chemistry on a line that will bring out his best.

Coaching Intervention: Needs the guidance of a more experienced player and be taken under said players wing in order to alleviate some of the pressure. Since he is generally considered the most talented player on the team the pressure media and fans put on him is immense, but nothing compared to how much he puts on himself. He has mentioned Forsberg and Sakic as players he hads admired and patterns his game after, but I see his developmental path more along the lines of Datsyuk who has a similar skill set. When Duchene does his Forsberg impression he tends to look weak on the puck. When he tries to be Sakic the difference in shot release is evident and that style doesn't maximize his skating abilities. He doesn't respond well to "being in the doghouse" needs a little positive reinforcement and people to remember he is still just 21 and not close to reaching his potential.

Gabriel Landeskog

Pros: Smart two way power forward who excels at the power and skill game. Does the little things right and displays veteran savvy at 19. Never takes a shift off or gives up, amazing compete level. Leadership potential.

Cons: Needs to work on his shot to better capitalize on opportunities he creates. Style of play will take its toll on his body over the years.

Coaching Intervention: Needs to carry the puck and use his unique skill set to dictate the play like i have seen him do late in tight games. Tends to be a complimentary player unless things aren't going his teams way when he steps up. Considering the vast amount of shots he puts on net should work more on his shot and release, if he did he could be a 35 goal guy. Should continue to put on muscle to increase his durability. He has apparently made great strides in that aspect of his development. He would also benefit from a veteran presence cause of his willingness to learn. I met with the gentleman who housed him when he was with the Kitchener Rangers, He said Gabe matured dramatically in the physical aspect from 2009 till 2011. He also said how great Gabe is as a person which is always nice to know. He said Gabe tends to ramp things up late into the season and dominate in the playoffs. (By the way Landeskog and Radar signed everyones autograph at the devils game last month, Gabe signed my jersey, an alternate kitchener. Im from nyc and was thrilled to be lucky enough to get it signed, I obviously don't see the Avs often)