Quote:
Originally Posted by Flames Draft Watcher
I think the implication is that Bouma was removed to basically make way for Hathaway. Similar type of player, similar type of role. Seems unlikely the Flames would go without a feisty, energetic hitter who is hard on the fore-check. That would make us easier to play against. Since Bouma was bought out that leaves Hathaway as the natural replacement for that role. Frankly I agree with this thinking. As soon as Bouma was bought out that signalled to me that it was Hathaway's role to lose.
I don't understand talk of Jankowski vs Hathaway since they do not compete for the same role on the team. One is a prototypical 4th line grinding winger and the other a skilled top 3 centre. Hathaway is competing vs F. Hamilton and Lazar if anything however Hathaway is more of a prototypical grinding winger than they are (the other two more centre ice men IMO). Jankowski IMO is competing vs Bennett and may be in tough to win a role if all of our centres are healthy to start the season. If he impresses more than Bennett at centre then I think Bennett is moved to LW. But if all of our centres are healthy the smart money may be on Janko starting the year in the AHL until the inevitable injuries hit. Hathaway meanwhile is pencilled in for me as the 12th/13th forward ahead of Hamilton.
That's how I see it.
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From what we saw of Janko last season, which was admittedly very little, and what we saw from bennett last year, which was admittedly overwhelming in comparison, I think Jankowski has the edge.
Maybe he puts up points, maybe he doesn't, but I think he has the potential to give the team more consistent minutes if he has reliable linemates. I don't think he'll step in and be bob gainey or anything, but I think the team is better off with a projected level Janko in the #3 role than Bennett there.
Bennett as a centre on this team has no future if backlund is staying, so it's either the wing or trade in my opinion.
Bennett on Jankowski's wing with Brouwer on the other side is a legitimate possibility in my mind.