Quote:
Originally Posted by TheoFleury
Seriously? Is that how we're going to evaluate the decisions GMs make? I will admit Yzerman did a great job with the hand he was dealt, he had to back his coach. He's just fortunate that things turned out the way they did. Is by this really so radical of a concept?
I'm just saying that RFAs aren't powerless like some suggest. I truly believe Drouin's trade value would be less without the playoffs and Yzerman's rep would be taking a hit right now had Drouin flopped or chosen that moment to go on a cold streak.
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If Drouin hadn't had a brilliant playoff, he would be in an even worse position. His value would be tanked, and if Yzerman wasn't going to trade him before he certainly wouldn't after a year of this. Think of the precedent that sets for other kids who come into your organization.
Yzerman handled the Drouin situation like a boss is supposed to. But if you want to argue he's lucky Stamkos had a blood clot issue, I guess you can.
RFAs have a little power. They don't have much. The only player to use your so called nuclear option is still on his team.
And there's literally no precedent for an RFA demanding a trade in the middle of a contract negotiation in the modern NHL.