The only aspect to Locke's game that's holding him back from securing a job at the NHL level is his skating since his playmaking abilities are more than adequate. In the final year of his contract, Locke will need to continue his solid play at the AHL level if he wants another taste of the NHL. He should once again lead the B-Sens in points--he had 21 goals and 65 assists last year--and might see some time with the big club if injuries take a toll.
Locke will likely spend the majority of the 2010-11 season centering Binghamton's top line. He's been a prolific OHL and AHL scorer, but has only seen four games of NHL action in his career. This is due mainly to his size and lack of top-end skating ability. That being said, he does have the potential to be an injury callup during the season.
Locke had a monster season in Minnesota's AHL affiliate in Houston last season to the tune of 25-54-79. He'll have a chance to make the Rangers out of camp this fall, though he probably won't ascend past the third line.
Locke signed a one year deal with the Wild in 2008. After losing versatile center Brian Rolston in the offseason, the Wild scrambled up capable depth. Locke, an integral part of such depth, spent time with Hamilton of the AHL last season, adding 30 goals and 42 assists in 78 games. Give him time to prove his worth in the NHL.
Locke has not been able to translate junior hockey excellence to anything tangible as a pro thus far. Expect Locke to spend another year in Hamilton of the AHL, which may be his ceiling.
Locke was a tremendous junior player and had a good season in the AHL last season. But, it’s his small stature that is the biggest strike against him, Known as a very offensive-minded player, Locke will probably not be a part of this team in ’05, unless a rash of injuries hit.
