Quote:
Originally Posted by TOfan
I'm with you on your approach with Bennett, but if you're expecting him to transform into anything that resembles any of the players you cite, that would be a remarkable transformation. MacKinnon? Hall????
That's like saying in in 2000 we should just be patient with Rico fata because he's about to turn into Pavel Bure.
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I'm only comparing him with Hall because we don't yet know what he will be, but chances are it will be a lot more than he is now, just like Hall became after being traded.
For the most part, MacKinnon scored those points on the first line. How much time has Bennett spent on the first line? MacKinnon has had a "remarkable transformation", but it's consistent with what you would expect based on his age and ability. Two years ago, or even last year, you could have argued that MacKinnon was a bust for a 1st overall, but look at him now. His greatest jump in performance occurred when he was 22, and in a situation where he was given the best opportunities to succeed.
The opportunity cost of being patient (maybe trading Bennett for a late 2nd rounder) is way less than the potential loss if he does reach anywhere near the ceiling that all of the scouts were anticipating before the draft that year. You'd basically be trading him for someone who would likely never play in the NHL for more than a cup of coffee, or at best a 4th liner. I do believe he still has the potential at his age to be at least an excellent 2nd line centre. Are you going to get anywhere near the equivalent of that potential in return?
Yes, I do believe that we have seen less progression in Bennett's game than we should. However, that lack of progression has plagued almost every player under Gulutzan (the fact that it hasn't affected Johnny too much shows just how special he is). Let's dump GG first, get someone who can restore the team's confidence and utilize their speed and skill, then give Bennett a year or two to see what he can do. Definitely bridge contract "show me" material.
Just keep in mind that he's 21. Most players that age are still in the minors, which is where he should have been until now.