Quote:
Originally Posted by Textcritic
I disagree somewhat. He is absolutely jeopardising his NHL future by dramatically decreasing his own value, and catalysing the impression that he is a project. I think we are at the point now that regardless of what team he next plays for, he will end up starting on an AHL roster, and with major questions about whether he even can make it back to the NHL. If he sits for any amount of time, he will require AHL conditioning just to get back up to game-shape. I believe it is naive to think that he is immune from any long term damage because of this.
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I think people seem to be forgetting as well that he has gone instantly into "me only" mode. He plays a team sport and has damaged not only the Lightning but the Crunch with his actions. He doesn't seem have any concept of what it means to be a team player. He is out for himself and himself alone. Not a great attitude to have at 20. Once you're in your 30s and the end of your career is in sight, you are more than entitled to play for yourself. But not at the beginning.
Ok, maybe he'll settle down once he gets a trade, but what happens if he gets traded to a team he doesn't like? Or has to play with players he doesn't like? Or has to work under a coach he doesn't like? Because I'd say there is a good chance the toys will be straight out the pram, as he's proven in Tampa. I'd argue this is perhaps in part why the trade hasn't been done yet. Yes, he might get traded and he might settle down, but I think he could have damaged his career prospects quite easily.