Player evaluation: Moulson

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MATT MOULSON

This season: 22 games, 5 goals, 4 assists, plus-2 rating.

Positives: There is some potential here. Moulson got bounced back and forth, between Los Angeles and Manchester, four times this season, but he managed some quality play in both leagues. In just 57 games with the Monarchs, Moulson totaled 28 goals and 28 assists. He seems to have a solid all-around game.

Negatives: Does he have top-six forward potential, and can he bridge the gap between the AHL and the NHL? There are a lot of players who put up strong numbers in the AHL but can’t make it translate to the NHL. Moulson’s challenges are to prove he belongs and prove that he deserves the ice time that might go to a younger prospect. Moulson could help his cause by packing on a little more muscle.

Looking ahead: This is a crucial time for Moulson. It’s very possible that he can take a step forward and earn a spot on the NHL roster, but if he doesn’t, he runs the risk of being pigeonholed as a talented AHL player who doesn’t have the chops to move up. The opportunity should be there for Moulson to earn a third- or fourth-line role.

Contract situation: Restricted free agent.

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