Some u16 teams practice once a week while others twice. Practice will help to prepare for the upcoming season more than limited game play. Squeeze in a skills session if possible and watch the practice and it may show you some areas that need improvement. Also, if you can put aside your emotion ask the coach what your son needs to work on to improve. Most coaches are trying to help players develop but there is enormous stress placed on them by numerous sources to win unfortunately and it impacts playing time.
Not sure but those guys certainly fit the bill. Well known for 5 line rosters with 3+ goalies and then telling 4-5 kids to stay home or to watch their buddies play when they get to the rink.