The American Hockey League (AHL) is a fascinating arena where the next big NHL stars are forged. This season, the spotlight shines on the top performers who are making a strong case for a shot in the NHL. Among them, Jakob Pelletier, Alex Barré-Boulet, Arthur Kaliyev, Zachary Jones, and Michael DiPietro stand out for their exceptional skills and potential. Each player brings a unique set of strengths and challenges, offering a glimpse into the future of professional hockey.
Pelletier's Promise
Jakob Pelletier, a former first-round draft pick, is a versatile forward with a knack for playmaking. His 49 assists and 77 points in 63 games for the Syracuse Crunch this season set a franchise record for consecutive games with a point. However, Pelletier's journey to the NHL has been riddled with challenges. Despite his impressive AHL performance, he struggled to find a meaningful role in the NHL, skating in just five games for Tampa Bay. His small frame and skating abilities have been a hindrance, but his versatility and skill make him a strong candidate for a bottom-six role if he can stay healthy.
Barré-Boulet's Resilience
Alex Barré-Boulet, an undrafted center, has shown resilience in his AHL career. His point-per-game pace in 70 games for the Colorado Eagles is a testament to his consistency. Barré-Boulet's journey to the NHL has been less successful, with just two games played for the Avalanche. Moving to the San Jose Sharks, he will now face a different challenge as the team aims for playoff contention. His high production in the AHL will be crucial for the Barracuda's success.
Kaliyev's NHL Struggles
Arthur Kaliyev, a second-round pick with NHL experience, has faced challenges in translating his success from the OHL to the NHL. His 40 goals in 70 games for the Belleville Senators showcase his scoring ability, but his skating and defensive skills have been questioned. Kaliyev's NHL role has stalled, and after a brief stint with the Rangers, he signed a one-year deal with the Ottawa Senators. With his age and lack of a contract, he is likely to be a free agent in the coming weeks, seeking a new opportunity.
Jones' NHL Prospects
Zachary Jones, the league's top-producing defenseman, recorded 52 assists and 62 points in 60 games for the Rochester Americans. His size and smooth skating make him a valuable asset, and his NHL experience with the New York Rangers adds to his appeal. Jones' signing with the Utah Hockey Club presents an opportunity for him to shine, especially with the team's need for depth. His potential to become a great piece alongside Maveric Lamoureux is a strong prospect for the Tucson Roadrunners.
DiPietro's Backup Battle
Michael DiPietro, the AHL Goaltender of the Year, has been a consistent performer in the AHL. His impressive .930 save percentage and 1.91 goals-against-average led the Providence Bruins to the league's best record. With the departure of Joonas Korpisalo, DiPietro has a chance to secure the backup job behind Jeremy Swayman in Boston. His patience and perseverance make him a strong candidate to make a name in the NHL, especially after seeing Brandon Bussi's emergence.
