Quote:
Originally Posted by Johnny Rotten
How would coming over to play junior hockey affect someone like Granlund's playing/contract/ status? In other words, would it better if the Flames were to sign him, and not bring him over until he is ready? That way, if he isn't ready until he's 21/22 (maybe longer) to play in the NHL, wouldn't it be more beneficial for the Flames to keep him in Europe so he doesn't become an RFA then a UFA too quickly... if that makes any sense? I'm obviously a little unsure of the rule regarding players who are drafted by a team but are kept in Europe until they are ready.
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European players who come over to NA to play in the CHL do not burn contract years because they are not playing in a professional league. Theoretically, if Granlund and the Flames decide that a season in Canadian Juniour would be best for his development, he could come over without having to sign a contract with the Flames, and would still remain Flames property until 2013. However, if he made that kind of commitment, I would be surprised if the Flames didn't sign him.
All of this is probably moot, though, as someone mentioned that he will need to fulfill a year of military service first.