I think you could actually say that Pearce is more polished than McCollum. But McCollum has better tools at his disposal. He's quicker, bigger, his glove hand is sickening, etc. But it's tough to gauge whether McCollum's skills outway Pearce's experience or vice versa.

For prospects, every year makes such a huge difference. From childhood all the way up to about the early 20s, when you're a hockey player, being one year older means you're one year stronger, smarter, and more polished. Pearce has three years on McCollum. However, McCollum was a three year starter in the OHL (pretty rare), while Pearce was only a two year starter in the CCHA. Does that make a difference? I don't really know.

Pearce's AHL debut last year leaves something to be desired, but he's probably better focused this season. I think those three years do make a big difference.

I think McCollum will start in Toledo so he can have a heavier schedule to get into his rhythm. I see him dominating though, so I don't think it will be too long until they bring up McCollum and send Pearce down.