I think that's a little unfair. You have to remember that when Tippett took over that team, they made a push for the playoffs and brought in a lot of vets that blocked a bunch of younger players, Tikhonov included. I think he probably looked at his situation and figured his ELC was expiring, he could make a good amount of money in Russia, and he would have a better opportunity to play. From his perspective, I can see why that makes more sense than grinding it out in San Antonio for another year or two until a spot opened up.
- Sandus

It sounds like the Coyotes were trying to convert him to a two way center instead of just letting him play wing.

Panarin will not play in Rockford. Ever. His out clause dictates that this is so.
- Sandus

The out clause just makes it Panarin's decision (if it comes to that) but it isn't a guarantee that it's the Hawks or the KHL. If the Hawks convince him to spend some time in Rockford than he can decide to go that route. Obviously we're all hoping he acclimates quickly and never looks back, but if not, than it's his decision what he will do.

Panarin will not play in Rockford. Ever. His out clause dictates that this is so.
- Sandus

Well he certainly does not have to go to Rockford, given his out clause, but having Tikhonov there may help change his mind if he decides he wants to stay and get adjusted to the North American style game. On the other hand, maybe he quickly adapts just fine and does not need time in Rockford.

The out clause just makes it Panarin's decision (if it comes to that) but it isn't a guarantee that it's the Hawks or the KHL. If the Hawks convince him to spend some time in Rockford than he can decide to go that route. Obviously we're all hoping he acclimates quickly and never looks back, but if not, than it's his decision what he will do.
- EbonyRaptor

Yes, it is, but I doubt he traveled 5,000 miles and learned a new language so he could make $80k in Rockford instead of staying on his championship club that he led in points.

With that said, if they did feel like he needed some seasoning on the NHL ice and somehow convinced him to play a bit in the AHL, then the sky is the limit for this kid, because that would be an exceptionally class move, and that speaks to character and leadership.

Maybe I'm wrong and I admit I don't have a good understanding of the situation - but I don't hold Ted Dent in very high esteem. I bring this up regarding the possibility of Panarin spending some time in Rockford if it's apparent he's not quite ready for the NHL ice and style of play. It seems to me that Dent has not done a good job of developing players under his care. While playing in the AHL, players will naturally learn how to play the pro game, but I'm not aware of any players who became better players because Dent was teaching/mentoring them. Again - maybe I'm totally off base and I know there are guys who post here regularly who would have a much better understanding of the situation than I do.

But that said, what is the primary objective for Ted Dent - is it to teach the player how to play in Q's system or is it to work with player to improve weaknesses in their game? That's not to say they are mutually exclusive objectives - but what is the primary objective that Dent is tasked with.

Maybe I'm wrong and I admit I don't have a good understanding of the situation - but I don't hold Ted Dent in very high esteem. I bring this up regarding the possibility of Panarin spending some time in Rockford if it's apparent he's not quite ready for the NHL ice and style of play. It seems to me that Dent has not done a good job of developing players under his care. While playing in the AHL, players will naturally learn how to play the pro game, but I'm not aware of any players who became better players because Dent was teaching/mentoring them. Again - maybe I'm totally off base and I know there are guys who post here regularly who would have a much better understanding of the situation than I do.

But that said, what is the primary objective for Ted Dent - is it to teach the player how to play in Q's system or is it to work with player to improve weaknesses in their game? That's not to say they are mutually exclusive objectives - but what is the primary objective that Dent is tasked with.
- EbonyRaptor

Wow, don't know where to begin;

Yep!

He just was replaced on Sweden's U20 team...if he isn't injured that's not a good sign...
- EnzoD

#EnzoDotes.

Supposedly Bowman is very excited about Panarin they being the front office are all giddy about this guy more so, and I heard Bowman say to fans if you are excited about Dano coming here wait till you see Panarin. So I fully expect to see Panarin on the top line which will mask any defensive flaws he might have and highlight any or all offensive skills he possesses. Really looking forward to seeing this line in the fall.

#EnzoDotes.
- smellmyfinger

YES! My EnzoDote for the day!

#EnzoDotes

Last

Panarin will not play in Rockford. Ever. His out clause dictates that this is so.
- Sandus

yeah..he has the clause...but getting used to the smaller ice, the system, I think both Tikhonov and panarin might agree to a bit of orientation.
Everyone wants to play, and it is not unrealistic that there will be a period of learning a system.
I don't Panarin will let he organization make him lanquish in the minors for long, but I doubt he is unreasonable to being prepared with adequate system orientation in Rockford.