Quote:
Originally Posted by MrMastodonFarm
Yeah, even setting the concussion concerns aside with his current production levels Baertschi probably isn't long for the NHL. No versatility to his game, plays one way, can't move up and down your roster etc. These players tend to float from a bad team or two then are out.
Lazar plays wing or center. Two-way game, speed, good defensive awareness and has been a leader in junior on a Memorial Cup and World Junior winning teams. Lazar with similar production to Baertschi (15 goals 35-40 points) is stil the better player. Just brings more potentially.
The league has changed over the last 10+ years where it's truly not your top two lines anymore, it's top three. The muckers and hanger ons are limited to that line, not the 3rd anymore. Valuable players patrol third lines and if Lazar can play center or wing there, or be a complimentary player on the other two it'll be a great fit for the Flames.
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All true, plus one thing that Sven also doesn't have - he plays physical. He actually likes playing physical and using his body to actually hit guys.
It never ceases to amaze me as how people get so hung up over Sven. He really wasn't that good. Calgary didn't mismanage him - he just refused to put on his big boy pants and play a mature game. Heck, he even said so as much after his first year in Van. He ended up being one of those dime a dozen players from the CHL with outstanding CHL offensive prowess who just don't have enough of a repertoire to translate into the NHL. He has found a niche in Van, but unless he takes a few more steps he will eventually get pushed out of there when that team eventually adds good players.
My prediction: Lazar turns into a fan favorite by next season. Why?
I do think he will regain some scoring touch (nothing crazy to start, just some scoring), but it will be his constant speed and work-ethic, along with his hitting, that will make him well-thought of.
People really loved Byron here (and so did I, though I absolutely thought he was a useless career AHL'er for the first couple of seasons). Lazar will bring those same elements that made Byron somewhat of fan favorite. Kid just works and skates for miles, and loves laying the body. He will be very effective on the forecheck.
I would be happy if he ends up becoming a solid 2-way physical player that chips-in offensively now and then, but I think he will be more than that. I think he will eventually end up on Bennett's line - either as Bennett's center, or Bennett's winger - and the two of them will drive the opposition crazy. They both play very similar games (though Bennett has a higher upside). Lazar is probably more physical and nasty than Bennett, and has that same speed and non-stop motor.
There is a lot to like about this trade. People will slowly be won over by this kid.