Quote:
Originally Posted by CalgaryFan1988
Phaneufs biggest problem was Daryl Sutter backing up the truck for him instead of him getting a bridge deal. That's not on Phaneuf, and I say that never really liking Phaneuf.
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Phaneuf was one of the hottest commodities at the time of the signing. He just finished his 3rd season with 60 points in 82 games and 182 PIMS; in today's game, that's a Norris finalist. I think this board would have flipped out if Darryl only got him on a bridge deal. At that time, Phaneuf was as important and as big a deal as Monahan and Gaudreau were last Summer.
It's not Darryl's fault that Phaneuf was an immature brat. Instead of learning and getting better, he did things his way "allegedly" and his game went into the sewer.
If you have a young player coming off an ELC and performed well, the bridge deal is not an option. The bridge deal is only there if the young player has struggled, see Sam Bennett. The first 3 seasons for Phaneuf in Calgary were 3 of the most impressive first 3 years of any player in Flames silks. Sutter had no choice but to sign him to that big contract. If I recall correctly, there was also the threat of an offer sheet at the time.