I think you just need to show patience with a lot of these guys. Yes, they are all disappointing from time to time - but Iginla even at his prime had disappointing games.
I love how Ferland tries to dangle sometimes. I think it is a combination of 'bad luck' and just needing to fine-tune his shot at the NHL level. He has a very deceptive shot, and the way he carries the puck is something you don't expect from a grinder/fighter type. I said this a few years ago, and I will keep saying it - Ferland will be a fan favorite. He will be a fan favorite for more than just his hits and his occasional fights - the kid will help drive offence for the Flames. I do think he can get 20+ goals in a season down the line - might even really surprise you with how much he can produce. I think he is a better player than Kassian - they are both similar in certain ways, but Ferland's hockey sense is so much better. We just need to give him time to adapt.
Also, I mentioned this in a game thread not to long ago - but I am almost personally convinced that Ferland has been told to avoid fighting by the staff. Remember, this kid was almost always ready to go and was looking for a fight early on. Concussions are a very real concern with him. He is at least toned down that part of his game quite a lot, and that is ok. He isn't causing that ruckus that you would normally expect out of him, but I think he is still fairly quick to step-in and support his teammates when things start happening. You always see him go straight at the net when play is stopped, not to cause stuff, but to make sure he is there in case something does start. That's important.
Colborne has been trending up. Many posters wanted (and probably still do) him traded at the deadline for a pick. Heck, I would think twice for a late first. He has really good speed (big guys like him are so deceptive). He has only been learning how to play a 'bigger' game in the last couple of seasons, and is starting to be better at it. He can provide good depth scoring. Yes, he has his warts - but don't let his age fool you. This is a kid that grew up being a certain type of player, and now he is changing his game (as should have happened years ago) to play a different type of game. I think he is still a developing player who could really be extremely useful in a bottom 6 role. I think you get happy if a late first turns into a bottom-6 useful player that can provide depth scoring.
Poirier is having a down season - but I am still very high on him. Kid plays with that snarl, and he has a tonne of speed. Remember, he had more SH goals than PP goals his draft + year. Any way you slice it, that is damn impressive for that age. He had a marvelous rookie season in the AHL and was an all-star. First season he is having a bit of trouble, and that's ok. 2 consecutive seasons of issues turning into 3 is when you can start writing them off. If anything, he has been rebounding lately, and that is a great sign.
I am not very high on Jooris myself. I just see him as a guy that is often easily replaceable. Doesn't really drive offence, doesn't make other players better, but just works hard out there and has good wheels. In my opinion, he is losing his job to Hathaway. I personally don't really think Agostino is going to make it anywhere close to a top 6 player (though I think some people do think so). I see Agostino stealing Jooris' job next season. Jooris will get a bit more expensive with the qualifying offer (automatic marginal increase). I think he will get replaced.
Hathaway has really come in and done well for himself. I do wonder if he keeps it up - not that I am putting it all on just 'youthful exuberance' that will fade, but interested to see if he keeps it up having to actually fight guys, or getting a lot more attention as the games wear on. Even as an agitator, you sometimes just have to pick your spots and your games.
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