Weisbrod was on the FAN960 today
- Steinberg asked about meritocracy when it came to guys earning spots with the Heat. Weisbrod responded that roster decision would be based on merit but then also commented that the Heat are a development team so there may be some instances where an established minor league player may have to give way to a player with NHL potential.
-Maher asked about the Jiri Hudler injury situation. They're not able to interact (can't even call them) with the players or treat them. They're trying to find about the situation but not much they can do.
- Talked about Backlund. Said it was a good call for Backlund to sign with Vasteras and keep playing. Said he showed a lot of promise two years ago and 'came back down to earth' last season. He talked about raising the talent level in Abbotsford and Calgary and it's up to Backlund to compete and be ready if/when the season starts.
-Said to some degree it was good for Baertschi to start in the AHL. The slightly lower level of skill and less structure will help Sven with the transition to the NHL. At the same time, if there was an NHL season, he would likely be in the NHL.
-Talked about guys who had played in the NHL last year (Brodie, Bouma, Horak, Byron) and said that their attitude has been fantastic. There's no big time mentality (I was slightly concerned this may be the case with Brodie, but according to PMM, he's been phenomenal, so that's good to hear). They're excited to use their experience in the NHL and be leaders on the Heat.
-Steinberg asked about Leland Irving's situation and the limits to his PTO. They didn't want to risk losing him on waivers so they signed him to a PTO. He can play 25 games and then is eligible to sign another one allowing him to play an additional 25 games.
Nothing earth-shattering here, but not much else to talk about.