One of the most interesting early-season developments for the Blues is how much ice time rookie Adam Jiricek has received. Despite having no NHL experience, Jim Montgomery has given him a ton of ice time. He has averaged 15:31 minutes of ice time this season and has gotten close to 20 minutes in a couple of games. This came as a surprise to some fans. It seemed like a lot of responsibility to place on a young player like him.
However, it appears that the ample ice time Jiricek has received could be running out. He received only 10:17 of ice time against the Predators and 11:50 against the Jets. It appears that Montgomery is starting to limit his role. If the trend continues, we could see Jiricek have a role similar to that of a bottom-pairing player. But this will not be the worst thing for Jiricek and his development.
Less ice time is not a bad thing for Adam Jiricek
Despite Jiricek getting a good amount of ice time, it has not translated into much on-ice success. In the nine games he's played this season, he's only scored one goal. He has also blocked nine shots, delivered six hits, and forced one takeaway. He has also turned the puck over 12 times. His metrics show he has been a little better than his counting stats. According to Natural Stat Trick, he has a 51.12 CF%, a 49.51 SCF%, and a 55.68 SCF%.
Although the metrics look decent and he has shown flashes, giving him a more limited role is a smart move. Jiricek is only 20 years old, and this is his first taste of professional hockey in his career. He spent all of last season in the OHL. That is a big jump for any player to make. The NHL game is much faster and more physical than the junior level. It can take time for players to adjust and get comfortable with the professional game.
The Blues should be very patient with Jiricek. Giving him a limited role will allow him to get a taste of NHL action without overrelying on him. It will allow him to develop at his own pace and not worry about being a key contributor. We have seen plenty of players flounder when teams place too much responsibility on them early. It can stunt them and cause them to never reach their full potential. That's why limiting Jiricek's ice time is good.
Many may see Jiricek as a big piece of the Blues future, but it's important not to rush him. Give him limited mintues to start until he is use to the flow of the NHL game.
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