Quote:
Originally Posted by BChockeyJunkie
I know I'm somewhat bias, but I've been watching and following as much as some of you. I just dont know what else Gaudreau has to do to be in the starting lineup. What is the weak phase of his game, yes, he's not gonna throw his body around, but his defensive game is well underrated. Always making smart plays, great at back checking plus a great defensive is a quick counter attack.
He controls the game when he's on the ice, knows when to turn it up ice and when to keep control and play the puck back. It blows my mind that there are still fans out there that are willing to keep someone that will be out of the flames organization within a year or two, over a kid that could be a cornerstone for years to come.
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If you polled the CP population I think you would find most people would like to see Gaudreau stick with the big club.
He still has a great opportunity to take the decision into his own hands. If he can score some more highlight reel goals he'll be there on opening night. Having watched him turn scores of skeptics into believers I honestly believe he has as good a shot as anyone to snag a roster spot (and hopefully the #13 jersey).
However, there are a few arguments in favour of demoting Johnny which make sense. I fully expect Johnny to dominate NHL teams some day soon, and though he is playing well he isn't the dominant force he could be. There's an argument that his development would be better served by easing his way into professional hockey in the AHL. The Flames are nowhere near contending yet, so why rush a young player into the NHL when it's not completely necessary to ice your most talented players? The Flames also have other excellent prospects that have 'paid their dues' by working hard in the minors to promote themselves within the organisation. A bit older, a bit bigger and a bit more 'seasoned' by experience, it might make more sense to reward one of these players with an NHL position while it's still plausible to demote a 1st year rookie like Johnny. It's also a great opportunity for him to develop chemistry with his future Calgary linemates who will also be eager to earn one of the first injury call-ups.
Regardless of what happens in the next week I guarantee Johnny Gaudreau will force his way onto the Calgary Flames by the end of the season.