Quote:
Originally Posted by djsFlames
Sounds like his parents had a good relationship with Feaster and Weisbrod, as they were the ones who drafted him and saw his potential despite his size. I guess they're worried that Burke doesn't see him with the same optimism as the previous management.
Regardless of who's in charge, though, Gaudreau would have to prove himself at the top level in order to make it. That doesn't change the physical challenge he would face in being a pro player. I'm confident Burke will be fair with Johnny and give him his opportunity. He might have to spend time in Abby first, but he'll still have every chance to make it. From everything we've heard out of Burke, he's as high on this kid as the rest of us. He may have cracked jokes about the size factor, but I think he was just trying to state the obvious, not trying to be hard on the kid or anything.
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Burke is the better guy than Feaster here. Like the Colborne acquisition where Burke lowered expectations big time by comparing him to David Steckel, Burke's comments about Gaudreau were only to lower fan expectations of probably the most hyped Flames prospect in years. It's just another example of Burke caring for his players.
Feaster and Weisbrod did Jankowski no favours with that stupid "best player in the draft" comment. Coming from Tampa, Feaster just had no idea what hype and expectations are on players in a Canadian market. Burke knows that all too well having been in Vancouver and Toronto.
Plus, Feaster had no idea what he was doing. Sure he acquired a bunch of small skilled guys but they were largely ineffective until some size and toughness was brought in to protect them. Burke understands that and has made this comment when talking about Gaudreau.
Papa Gaudreau should feel better that Burke is in charge because the Flames will always be one of the tougher teams with him in charge. Johnny will have one to two enforcers looking out for him here always, which will give Johnny the freedom to be as creative a player as he wants. None of the Flames small players have had to deal with anything this year with Grats and Westy around, and this will be true when Johnny plays for the Flames.