Brendan Lemieux was one of the pieces in the Evander Kane trade and he has struggled to live up to the potential that many thought he had when the Buffalo Sabres 31st overall in 2014. He broke the point-per-game barrier in both his seasons after the draft, but he has struggled to put up points in the AHL. Hopefully Lemieux has a better sophomore season with the Manitoba Moose and is able to show why he was taken so high in the draft three years ago.
Tim: Brendan Lemieux is already a fan favourite. A lot of this has to do with his name. His play has left a lot to be desired. While Lemieux has an NHL caliber shot, his two-way play and lack of discipline continue to cause issues. Fans dream of a pest who can draw the opposition into penalties, but Lemieux continues to take far more than he draws.
Andy: Lemieux, while talented in scoring ability and getting under his opponents skin, needs to draw on disipline and strict play inorder to make it into the NHL. Entering his second full season with the Moose, Lemiuex will be asked to increase his on ice responsibility to offset his agitation capabilities…think Brendan Gallagher of the Canadiens, and you'll know what I'm thinking of.
Brian: I had high hopes for Lemieux when he was still in junior, but those feelings have waned a bit. Now, I don't see him becoming an NHL regular at all, being passed up by De Leo, Connor, Petan, Foley and now Vesalainen. Most of the hype he still has, looks to only be due to his last name. Maybe he can regain my confidence, but it's gonna take a lot. Getting his head in the game is step number one.
