Even if it meant a lower return like a 4th round pick instead of a second round pick, I would have rated the flames trade baertschi to an eastern team instead of the Canucks. Everyone can argue the merits of baertschi's progression and whether or not he was mis-managed... But in the end, I think this trade will come back to haunt the flames in the fairly near future.
I imagine the Canucks will give him a real shot at a top six position... In fact, I bet they put him with sedins and he starts putting up solid numbers like we all know he's capable of. He'll be extra motivated and feel like he has a fresh start with a new management/coaching staff. To me... All this will add up to baertschi flourishing with the Canucks. Which will be very frustrating for all of us.
|