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Originally Posted by FlameZilla
Treliving was throwing around the classic "Meritocracy" quotes a couple of months ago. I'll try & find the quotes to back that up...
It's a bit of a dilemma; just because these players are good enough to outplay a veteran (on a bottom 5 team) for a roster spot doesn't necessarily mean they wouldn't be better served by a bit of seasoning in the minors (Gaudreau) or junior (Bennett). There's a risk that rushing these players will lower their chances of reaching their potential 'ceiling', but if they can step right in and contribute then who is to say they can't learn what they need to learn on the fly in the NHL?
It's a bloody difficult decision. We sure as hell don't want to Oilers these players. Sure, they would make the team better in the short term, but if they develop properly they should make the team a future contender.
I feel Granlund is ready, though, and he is leading the race to be Backlund's injury replacement. Should get a good long look.
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I agree with everything you said and will add it's not that easy to make roster spots for the youngsters. I see a lot of trade Jones ect to open a roster spot, but other teams will look within before going trade route. In the case of Jones I would have to think his contract is unmovable, unless taking back just as much salary for some garbage players. Even then the garbage players would take up the roster spot from the youngsters.