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Originally Posted by 868904
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.
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Good post. This is all very true.
He will be better off with Burke in charge, who will know to surround him with enough size that will allow him to have protection on the ice when he must face much larger opposition. Some intimidation from our side will go a long way to allowing Johnny to play his game and (more likely) succeed. I'm not sure Feaster would've known to do the same. He would've more or less been left to the wolves when he'd join the team, which would've made it harder on him.
The expectations tactic is really smart on Burke's part. As much as we like to think he's the next big thing, if Burke came out and said that, then the pressure on him coming in might be a lot to take, perhaps too much.