Quote:
Originally Posted by RoughRiderRowdy
I didnt say that, but thanks for putting the words in my mouth i appreciate the generosity. When we say "top line player", does that mean after 2-3 years of development, they IMMEDIATELY jump into the lineup opening day of a season and tear it up?? theres adjustments and growing pains just like every other prospect. Also, people dont seem to understand that a top line player needs to play with other top line players, to infact be a proper "top line player", if that makes sense.
Realisticly, these guys will need at least one full NHL season with low-mid production getting their feet wet til they will be coined "top line players".
-3 Seasons IF everything goes well.
-Lets face it, the biggest "development" issue for all of our perceived "first line players", is strength and conditioning. Or, maturing into a man's body. This takes time you guys and cant be taught
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take it easy, wasn't jumping down your throat, apologies if that is how it was perceived.
I don't see any reason to go out hunting for top end talent at this stage of the rebuild. I am happy that they kept around some veterans in all positions to show guys that will push themselves into the line up in the coming year or 2 (the stajans, raymonds, bolligs, mcgrattons, giordano, widemans, heck engellands, and hiller). I think we'll see some of the prospects stepping into top line duty within a year or two. I also believe that the flames will make a plunge on the market (trade or FA) to add high end talent when they feel they have enough assets to start rounding the corner.
The LA kings are a prime example of that. ~5 years ago they had an unreal prospect pool and plenty of young studs on the NHL roster. However, they really turned the corner when they started using their plethora of assets to bring in guys like richards, carter, even penner (who did help them get the cup).
Flames are getting there, but no need to rush the next step of the rebuild, in my opinion.