I don't think there is anything wrong with giving an opinion - good or bad. Creates discussion, and this is what this board is for after all - great discussion.
It is the extremes that become frustrating and annoying at times. For instance, I personally love Jankowski, and think he has the TOOLS to be a #1 center in the league. I also think he has a relatively small bust factor (IQ, skating ability, packing on size, and developing in an 'defense-first' environment). What I will not proclaim is something like: "I guarantee that Jankowski is going to come in here and become the first line center on this team, and be a superstar in this league." I would expect to get ripped for writing that down, though I am sure there would be a few posters agreeing as well. If I just continue saying something like: "Jankowski has the tools to possibly end up developing into a pretty good #1 center given his strengths, but he does have a long road to get there. He may only develop into a checker, though that in itself isn't guaranteed. I do think he will be an important piece for the Flames in their top 6, however." I don't think anyone who is 'down' on Jankowski would pull that up 5 years from now if Jankowski ends up busting and saying "Look at this idiotic post."
It is the same thing if I didn't like Jankowski and said: "This kid will never make it in the NHL. 6'3" and only 165lbs? Never in a million years will he make it. Total rubbish of a selection. Flames make yet another bust of a 1st round pick." People making these definitive statements can also expect to get 'ripped'. Why not just say: "Wow, that was a surprise. It seems like a risk move in my opinion, and I wonder what sort of chance this kid ever has to make it. Hopefully it will work out, but I do have my doubts given his lack of physical development and the league he was drafted out of.". That is a fair statement that will encourage discussion, not encourage a bunch of angry responses.
There is a difference - both positive and negative in terms of people's opinions - that illicit a particular type of reaction. If people can't figure out that difference, then it explains a whole lot as why they get so upset when they are suddenly met with a number of angry or snarly rebuttals. I swear that I think some people just enjoy getting a rise out of others, but keep denying it! haha
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