Quote:
Originally Posted by thefoss1957
Some Chicagoans have viewed Hayes' college career as disappointing, especially his first 3 years. Also he struggled with injuries, and had a suspension for violating team rules. Other teams' fans seem much more excited about him than do 'Hawk fans (as a 38 page thread on a Flame forum indicates...'Hayes hadn't been even discussed at Blackhawkzone forums for months).
This is from a Chi Sports Blog linked by the Chicago Tribune... http://www.chicagonow.com/daily-chic...wks-freehayes/ |
I can't speak for all fans, especially those from other teams, but I would be 'excited' about signing Hayes. Why? I personally don't view him as that great of a prospect - I think a guy like Arnold from his same line is a much stronger prospect due to his stronger 2-way play.
However, any time an organization is able to sign a former 1st round pick who has had 4 years of development time, and who does have legitimate potential, and who also seems to come in a fairly large frame - that is something to be happy about. I don't think he is a guarantee to make any team in the NHL, but I do think there would be reason for any team in the NHL to want to sign a player like that and have that player in their prospect base. Sometimes, players like that develop really nicely, other times they don't. Having that chance for essentially 'free' (other than money and contract space) is a win for any organization.