Colorado Avalanche
Avs claim Nicolas Aube-Kubel on waivers. What kind of player is he?
So, the Avalanche acquired a new player today. His name is Nicolas Aube-Kubel, a 5-11 right winger who has played 102 regular-season games with the Philadelphia Flyers, where he posted 10 goals and 28 points.
Why did the Avs do this? Partially because of the longer-term injury to Martin Kaut, and partially because they probably have a longer-term roster spot now open because of the concussion protocol for D-man Bo Byram.
Kubel was the 48th player taken overall in the 2014 NHL Draft by Philly. He played 50 of the Flyers’ 56 games last season, with three goals and 12 points. He had a brief spell on the Flyers’ first power-play unit before being dropped. He had 44 penalty minutes with the Flyers last season in the 50 games, which explains some of why I got very mixed reviews on his play from a couple of people who have seen him play a lot with Philly.
“Straight-line player who has zero hockey IQ,” said one former player and current analyst. “Has speed and some skill. Just straight-line meat and potatoes. Makes a play now and again.”
Said another: “He’s a good skater. A lot of energy. Total numbskull. Takes dumb penalties at the worst times.”
OK then. Sounds like Avs coaches have some work in front of them here. Let’s see how this plays out.
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Not sure how he going to fit in? The scouting reports are not the most favorable. Maybe he’ll bring a little sandpaper and toughness when he plays on the 4th line? Overall however I see this as strange move by Sakic & Co.
I know this is a late comment, but…
From what I’ve heard, the Avs were the fifth claim made on Aube-Kubel when he hit the wire. That means there was a bunch of interest in him. As far as my opinion, he did take a run at Tom Wilson and held his own. That’s pretty telling about his “ability.”
Why did the Avs pick Aube-Kubel up? One word. Grit. This guy doesn’t back down to anybody. I think this guy will bring toughness on the boards, He is also a guy that can be a head hunter if necessary. Beyond all that he has the skills and if he so desires to be coached, he has won the lottery by being picked by a team with one of the best coaches in the league.