I'll admit that my initial reaction was disappointment because the draft this year is extremely good, but obviously one's reaction depends on how one sees O'Reilly's potential, and I don't have a read on that. 50 points by itself is not that impressive. That's Matt Stajan in Toronto, Brandon Dubinsky in New York. I'm a little worried that the Avs fan here says that O'Really doesn't have huge offensive upside, because as much as I appreciate good defensive players, I have been dreaming about a rebuild that will bring in dynamic players that can carry the team.
Also, I think the people who say that it makes the possibility of the Flames trading away their assets less likely are correct. And I absolutely think they should sell.
My final worry is that young player who is already holding out for a contract will not be with the Flames after the next 3 seasons when he gets his UFA status. If they rebuild, that would be about the time when the other young players will start to make a difference.
If he has enough offense to be a first line center, then the price is fine. But I wouldn't be so quick to make fun of the fans who aren't immediately convinced that it's a positive move.
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