Quote:
Originally Posted by FAN
That's actually one of the biggest problems I have with Stajan. The guy is ok with losing. People talk about him being a good mentor but personally, he isn't the type of veteran I want mentoring the kids. The guy hasn't made the playoffs in 9 years. The only time he played in the NHL playoffs was in his rookie year where he played 3 out of 13 games. This is the type of veteran you sign to fill a role, not to mentor the kids.
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Being a good mentor isn't necessarily solely based on prior playoff experience. A guy could have lots of playoff experience but not be a great mentor if they lack the attitude, patience, and work habits that is desired. Having the willingness to reach out to a kid, offer good advice, and leave a positive impression on them may not be a trait that is found in even the best of players. When I hear Monahan specifically saying Stajan is one of the guys he watches in order to improve his play, then why shouldn't he continue to mentor? Based on Stajan's play the last couple of years I don't see any reason why he shouldn't. His lack of playoff experience doesn't equate to being okay with losing - especially when I see how fired up he can be at times during games.
Any playoff experience becomes secondary if a player already has familiarity with the team, is committed to the idea of a rebuild (a trait that is probably harder to find with players who have played for contenders), and understands what management and coaches are looking for.
As far on his contract goes, I think he will gradually go from having a key role on the team to eventually a supporting role as the years pass. Having him as a 3rd/4th line veteran centre in the last years of his contract(if he isn't traded) isn't the worst idea in the world, especially if it helps our younger centres ease into the NHL by playing them on the wing.