Quote:
Originally Posted by GullFoss
Referring to discipline off the ice. Just friends that have hung out with the core of young forwards. The feedback is that relatively speaking Bennett is a lot more focused on improving his craft and has a really good head on his shoulders. Super driven to be better.
In regards to talent level, its much the same sources. I remember having conversations with friends who are close to the team. And the feeling among a number of veterans on the team was that Bennett - once he figures his game out - has the potential to be the best forward on the current roster because of his mix of tenacity, raw talent level, hockey IQ, and ability to do things at speed. Now granted - I'm a bit skeptical too, because its been 2 full seasons, and we've seen glimpses of this at best.
But, if thats the view within the organization - that Bennett is super talented, dedicated and driven - then there might be a high level of conviction that the player will figure it out and become a star. And if this is the case, then the risks around the flames paying for future potential today is a lot lower than it would otherwise be if Bennett's ceiling was lower or if Bennett didnt have a strong work ethic.
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This last paragraph is so key, and it's the part of the player into which it's difficult as a fan to have visibility.