Just because a team has leverage, it doesn't mean that they should exert it as forcefully as possible. This team needs a happy Gaudreau playing at his best if they are going to succeed. The fact Gaudreau is arguably the best player on the team gives him a tonne of leverage.
We don't want to hurt that relationship to the point that he wants out and hurts his value as an asset. And we don't want to deter other college players from signing with the Flames knowing that the second contract is going to be hell.
Without knowing what each side wants, it's silly to say who should compromise.
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"A pessimist thinks things can't get any worse. An optimist knows they can."
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