
Originally Posted by
Giacomin
To simplify my point, a deep run in the KHL playoffs will be better for his overall development than 10 or so games on an established Hartford team halfway across the world.
Ideally Chelyabinsk is better, as many anticipate, and he gets a long playoff run and top minutes. If a top team trades for him, I doubt it will be to bury him on the bench. The chance to win minutes(prove himself) against the best competition, will reveal more about the player. Plus, it will provide another valuable experience w/o him needing to move halfway across the globe.
You are underestimating the short term distraction a permanent move from Russia to here will be for an 18 y/o. Not speaking the language, having a place, knowing anybody or the any surroundings is a lot to deal with initially.
Panarin was a full-on adult and seasoned player when he came over. He had a full off season to prepare and adjust. It is a bad comparison. Besides, the less he uses a translator the better.
Think of it this way. The Rangers view this kid as the 3rd best forward available in this strong draft and a better prospect than Wahlstrom, Bouchard and Dobson. That means this kid is may be our highest graded prospect/investment we develop. Let's not fuck him up the way Edm did with Yakapov. He was rushed over, it was admitted first hand.
We have a chance to model Kuz's development and we are proceeding that way. Let him stay the season in Russia, there is nothing to think about. When his KHL season is over, if he is healthy and 100% game, bring him over.