Tampa Bay Lightning: Jonathan Drouin Isn’t Going Anywhere

Nov 7, 2015; Saint Paul, MN, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning forward Jonathan Drouin (27) in the third period against the Minnesota Wild at Xcel Energy Center. The Minnesota Wild beat the Tampa Bay Lightning 1-0. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

Jonathan Drouin has had high expectations as a former third overall pick in the 2013 NHL draft, but fans need to stay patient with the young forward.

Since the day Jonathan Drouin was selected with the third overall pick during the 2013 NHL draft, fans have anticipated that the young Canadian forward would provide a young, skillful presence into the lineup with his skating and play making abilities. Fans watched games and highlight videos from his time in Halifax as a member of the QMJHL team Halifax Mooseheads and salivated over the skill Drouin showed while on the ice.

After spending his first year as a Lightning prospect back in Halifax to improve his game and gain strength for the next level, it has not been an easy road for the 20-year-old as injuries and limited minutes on the ice have limited his abilities. Some fans have even reacted that it may be time to call Drouin a bust and trade him away to another team.

Anyone who believes that Jonathan Drouin is a bust or is going to be traded is not watching the same games you and I are watching. When he has been on the ice, though in a limited fashion, Drouin has shown that he is more than capable at excelling in this league. Remain optimistic, Lightning fans. Here are some reason to do so.

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