Nigel Dawes
Posted On Tuesday, September 23, 2008 at at 9:13 AM by Woodside Acres
Now that I have seemingly worked out all of my computer issues, let's get back to preseason player analysis. Nigel Dawes has certainly served his time in the AHL. Having been bounced around pretty regularly over the past two seasons, this year will have to be a make or break year for the diminutive left winger. Having been signed to a modest contract, Dawes will get an opportunity to play on the second line this season alongside Chris Drury and Petr Prucha. Dawes will have the ability to showcase his scoring talents and prove once and for all he deserves to stay at the NHL level. Last season, he played in 61 games scoring 14 goals and 15 assists for 29 points.
Pros: Dawes has a knack for scoring and is certainly a stalwart in the shootout. He has a nice touch around the net and shows good patience with the puck. Getting consistent playing time as well as playing with such effective forwards like Drury and Prucha will only make him stronger.
Cons: Size has always been a big question for Dawes, but he needs to look no further than his center, Drury, in who to emulate. Drury, listed as a mere inch taller than Dawes, is a great example for Dawes. Can he maintain a consistent scoring pace? Can he contribute nightly in more ways than just scoring? He may not be a stud winger, but he is certainly capable of a 25+ goal season.
Realistically: Dawes has a lot of talent, but can he contribute that talent night in and night out? Consistency will have to be key, which I think Dawes is capable of. Do I think you can expect a 40 goal campaign from him? No, but he should be able to put up a 50 point season. If not, he will find himself out of the mix.
