[squiggs96]

In 2005-06 Crosby played his first year in the NHL, right after he was drafted. That Penguins team finished last in the conference with only 58 points, and only one point out of last in the league when St. Louis finished with 57. Crosby played in 81 games that year, and "burned" a year off his ELC, playing on a horrible team. Should Pittsburgh have sent him back to juniors to save that year? No, as he had nothing left to prove at that level, and his development was only going to be helped by playing against NHL competition. Pittsburgh made the correct, and very obvious, move to keep him on the NHL roster.

Although Monahan is not the same calibre of player that Crosby is, the situation the Flames are in is close to the situation Pittsburgh was in. Calgary isn't projected to do very well this year. Some have called them the worst roster Calgary has ever iced. I would argue that Monahan's second contract should have no bearing on whether he stays or not this year. If he will develop better this year, in the NHL, against better competition, then keep him up. Pittsburgh found a way to sign Crosby and Malkin to huge deals. Chicago has found a way to keep Kane and Toews. I'm pretty sure Calgary will find a way to pay Monahan after three years, and keep both sides happy. I think a player will become a better player if they play against better competition. I don't think him ruling the CHL will be the best idea. I'd rather he makes mistakes with the Flames, learns from them, and is surrounded by better coaches and players that will aid in his development. He can learn more from mistakes in the NHL than he can from successes in the CHL. I also think he will have many successes in the NHL this season, as he's shown remarkable poise and presence so far.