Yeah I just don't see the carrying tool that would get Tracey that sort of extended opportunity on an energy/checking line. Maybe he'll add some man strength in his mid 20s and figure out how to play a heavier style, otherwise he's not an overly prolific AHL scorer, nor fit for a checking role.
That's what Tracey started doing last season. He took on the role of being the pest last year. I think he was playing center sometimes last season as well. This year, he's been stapled as a LW and RW on the 3rd line with Gaucher. I just think he's not being put in the best position to succeed as a scorer under the Verbeek regime.
AHL
D+2 (Murray): 12 games, 0g + 0a = 0 pts (0.00 ppg), -2 rating
D+3 (Murray): 55 games, 11g + 20a = 31 pts (0.56 ppg), -1 rating
D+4 (Verbeek): 62 games, 10g + 18a = 28 pts (0.45 ppg), -17 rating
D+5 (Verbeek): 42 games, 8g + 12a = 20 pts (0.47 ppg), +1 rating
Maybe the Verbeek regime thinks Tracey needs to add more mass to play in the top-6 and is being sheltered in a 3rd line role with big rookie Gaucher, but Gaucher lacks offensive skill as a center.
Groulx' first year in the AHL: 42 games, 10g + 19a = 29 points (Covid season)
Gaucher's first year in the AHL: 52 games, 6g + 11a = 18 pts (season still in progress)
For Tracey's sake, let's hope that late bloomer potential still exists.