I actually tend to think that Hayes' decision is incredibly risky. I think the key is to become a common enough contributor on a starting roster. Look how many guys play a few games and then, never again. Watching the Flames this last year and a bit has really hit home to me just how many guys are trying to make the NHL and just how bloody difficult it really is. For every 1 amazing prospect, and I'm sure Hayes is, there are 4-5 guys where the difference in skill is probably not that big. A prospect has to get lucky, and hope that he gets legitimate icetime to impress.
Is that going to happen in New York? I'm not convinced Calgary was the best option for him either. Where would have been the best chance to become a true NHL player? What system would fit his style of play best? That's what he should have been focused on, not where is close to home or what city has the best night life or sex appeal which is what I am assuming was part of the draw to New York.
Calgary's got a thousand prospects... making the Flames might not have been as easy as one thinks. Nashville? I dunno. But the Stanley Cup finalists? Yeah, good luck cracking that squad.
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