It's a valid point, but it's kind of a tough situation. He can't play in the AHL because he is only 19, so it's either the NHL or junior hockey. Is it really beneficial for his development to dominate a bunch of 16-18 year old kids? I don't think so. Allow him to get a taste of NHL hockey this year with sheltered minutes (Dougie Hamilton treatment) before taking the kid gloves off next season. Sure the clock on his ELC will start, but it's better for his development to play against the best in world as opposed to dominating 16-18 year old kids who are no where near his level. Plus he makes our team better now anyway.