The peek behind the curtain at the scouting rubric is very interesting. I wonder how you all would apply the rating system to guys currently on the roster. Are Walker/Girard/Manson all equivalent to 5s?

If Behrens’s upside is third pair, is he likely to fill the roles that would let him find a niche with the Avs? How effective is he at defending entries, on the PK, etc. As much as all of the Avs D can skate and join a rush, Bednar/Pratt seem to prefer pairs that feature one guy who is more likely to push the puck, and one guy who hedges slightly more towards staying home. Is Behrens more of the former archetype? If so, it would seem like he’s in direct competition with Malinski for the same roster spot, and Sam has a head start. Not a bad thing in itself, but perhaps a limiting factor on how much the Avs will be able to maximize his value.

That would be a bummer if he played a fourth year and went to free agency. Losing a good prospect for nothing. But totally would understand him doing that. Good article with the scouts perspectives. Thanks.

Great stuff, thanks Eric and AJ