Ryan White can put points on the score sheet in the junior ranks, there’s no question about it. Last season, he finished with 89 points (G-34 A-55) in 72 games and finished fourth in WHL scoring. This season, White has 55 points (G-23 A-32) in 50 games and remains an important part of the Hitmen’s success.
The question that remains: Can he do it at the pro level next year in Hamilton? Scoring at the junior level still takes talent but we are well aware that it doesn’t always transfer to the professional ranks (ie-Doug Wickenheiser,….etc) . To be completely honest, the Canadiens don’t expect Ryan White to be an offensive force at the AHL or NHL level, they drafted the Calgary Hitmen center in 2006 NHL draft (3rd round-#66 overall) to add more grit, leadership and heart to their prospect pool.
The biggest obstacle to Ryan White making or succeeding at the pro level is his average to below average skating or foot speed, something that he has worked hard at improving over the years. He still has junior eligiblity as an overaged player but there is nothing more for him to prove at this level and it wouldn’t help his development as well. It certainly will be interesting to see how well he develops at the AHL or ECHL next year.