[Northern Lites]

Originally Posted by Flames Draft Watcher

Well during one of Ward's interviews he mentions that the Olsen line dominated possession and was the most standout that night. I think that was after the first scrimmage, the one without the refs.

I don't think they are making cuts based on how quiet guys are.



Seems like you are making a giant leap here. The Flames org has talked a lot about guys making it on merit. Certainly they didn't hand Wahl a spot due to draft position. They didn't hand Cameron a spot based on his contract. They didn't hand Howse a spot based on draft position.

The number of invitees who have survived indicates that Ward definitely did not pick the team beforehand because this is likely the first time he's seen some of these guys. Quite clearly some guys have earned their ability to survive that first cut.

Nor is Ward the only one in on the decisions so you should be fingering Weisbrod too if you're upset with the cuts.

Bad leap of logic there on your part IMO.

Meh………I guess we will just agree to disagree. I have been attending the Heat games since they started and have watched most of the away games on AHL live. I have watched the player’s development, noted who gets ice time, who gets opportunities and who doesn’t. I have a pro hockey player in my family, have friends with children who are pro hockey players and have friends who are pro hockey players. It is a tough road and unless you are a super star you have to have a coach who wants you around. (Just ask Aliu.) Yes you have to have the skills, and work hard but it is naïve to think that it is ONLY based on merit with any coach, Ward or otherwise. I am sure Weisbrod had his say but doubt he would disagree with Ward. Any organization wants the coach to have players that he feels respond to him and vise versa.
As for as Wahl and Cameron, I admit I only saw the scrimmage and the inter-squad game but I thought Wahl was very good and Cameron did surprise me with his skill set. Patterson was a tough and strong. I did not notice Olsen at all so I was very surprised that Ward mentioned him. This is just my honest opinion; take it for what it is.