Quote:
Originally Posted by Roof-Daddy
In some ways Bennett had a better rookie season than Monahan did. At the very least they were comparable.
But then in his sophomore season he didn't get 19+ minutes per night with ROY candidate Johnny Gaudreau and Jiri "career year" Hudler on his wings.
He also had to learn center at the NHL level in his 2nd year because IIRC he spent a lot of time on the wing in his rookie season.
This is why I cringe somewhat when I hear crap like "Sam Bennett has requested a trade out of Calgary" even if it's from some hack basement blogger. Sam watches as Monahan gets opportunities like that just a little ahead of him and then steps right into a 7 year $45 million second contract, while Sam is now likely going to have to take a piddly bridge deal, and then STILL have to play the role of 3rd line center behind Monahan and Backlund with the lesser wingers very likely flanking him.
I mean you want the guy to be a team player, but in reality the Flames are benefiting much more with him as a 3rd line C than he ever will. Doesn't do much for his career earning potential.
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I figure it was that shoulder injury in a critical development year that has him where he his now. Without losing that I bet he'd be way further ahead right now.