I wouldn't call Kanzig four years away, he was four years away two years ago. He's still pretty raw and he needs to work on his skating -- but he has improved quite a bit since the Flames drafted him. That being said, expectations need to be in line with his abilities -- he likely tops out as a #4/$5 guy with crazy size and reach. He's no Zdeno Chara, although there are some parallels from a development standpoint.
In today's NHL Kanzig needs enough mobility to make that reach impossible to escape. He could be more physical, his passing game needs more work -- but his assets can make up for his shortcomings. If the Flames focus on developing him into an effective shutdown/stay-at-home guy who relies on his partner to make the outlet pass then he could fit right in on this roster in a couple years.
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