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Originally Posted by JiriHrdina
Mixed feelings on that one because I now am on board with those that think Jones is a very special player - and an elite #1 dman can be just as important to a cup win as a #1 centre.
The tough decision comes if the Flames are sitting in the 3-hole with Mackinnon and Jones off the board. Do you take Drouin - who looks fantastic but is a winger? Tough call indeed.
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Yes you take Drouin. Wether it be football, hockey, or whatever I feel when you are picking at the top of the draft you take the best player over position of need if a can't miss prospect is available when you pick. You can argue that he's the best player if picking at number one but you can also make cases for Jones and Mackinnon so if faced with that proposition you have more flexibility to choose based off need but given the lack of organizational depth at center I feel you have to take what is likely the best center prospect the organization may get a chance to pick in a long time. Barkov is right there but I would rather take a North American at this position as there are just too many variables with European players. Right now it's hard to discuss given we don't know exactly when the Flames will pick as it's possible they are at a lower position where they will be happy to get their hands on Barkov.
My personal opinion on Jones is that he's a no brainer for any teams that is looking for a franchise defenseman but it usually takes them longer to develope and there are a lot of can't miss defenders that go on to have pretty average careers. I remember that Hedman was hyped by many to be possibly the best player in the 2009 draft but looking back I don't think he's even better than Larsson and I would certainly rather have Tavares or Duchene. I feel that top line center is the most important skater position in hockey and the Flames have to address this position more than any other.