The HB seems to reflect numbers that were put up
by a particular person (the same can be said for the
heisman or the Naismith).  But there is going to be better
rookies (not to mention veterans) every year in the NHL
than the guy that wins the HB.  Besides how many times
has the HB winner been the number 1 overall pick
in the draft (or even the number 28)?
 
Since I'm from Wisconsin I'll give my slant.  Look at
the former Badgers in the NHL.  Chris Chelios, Gary Shuchuck
ect.  These guys played with balls (sorry for the french)
and busted some can to get there.  This is not to say
they didn't have talent or that the HB finalists don't
have desire it just seems to be a factor.
 
Stauber's name has come up a number of times as HB winners
who have busted in the NHL.  If I remember right, the year
he won the HB was the same year Duane Derksen was a HB
finalist.  And he certainly seems to be a bust.
 
Overall, it boils down to one thing (and this
has been said before) there is a world of
difference between NHL and college hockey.  I'm not sure
any WCHA official would allow the clutch and hold style
that has been running loose this year in the NHL.
 
later
 
jd
on wisCAHNSIN