I guess I am at the "wait and see" point now. Just like how I didn't like the Elliott trade, eventually there were enough good arguments that I accepted a neutral outlook.
I think people have made good arguments on both sides. There are reasons to think this could be a good or bad move.
I think the main thing that disappointed me was that I was hoping for a long term solution and not another stop gap move. I think goalies have more of an effect on team chemistry than people realize. They are like the bass player of the band quietly influencing everything without making it obvious. Teams often adjust their play based on the goalie's style and how much confidence they have in the goalie. I think there will be an adjustment period again next season, and probably again in 2 seasons when Smith likely moves on.
Having said that, if the Flames think Gillies is the next starter, having a goalie that plays a similar style to him could help.
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"A pessimist thinks things can't get any worse. An optimist knows they can."
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