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Originally Posted by KootenayFlamesFan
Yeah I think that's part of it too, Brodie was confident with Gio and they meshed so well for a while Brodie wasn't really overthinking, he was just playing.
And I wasn't really just thinking Brodie offensively (even though that's the point of the thread) but defensively lately he's made some really strange and poor decisions. I don't know what's up with him but if we could get Brodie from 2/3 years ago it would be massive.
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Yep. I think moving Brodie to the left side made him uncomfortable. It seems like he's never regained his comfort. Would moving him to the right side solve it? It's hard to say as confidence is a weird thing. But moving him to the right side doesn't really seem like an option unless you move Hamilton or Stone. So the whole thing is awkward now as he really hasn't looked like a fit on the left side in the top 4 but you're happy with everybody else where they are.
I think one of the biggest decisions Treliving has to make this summer is in regards to Brodie. Personally I'm thinking it might be best just to trade him. I think top 4 defensemen with mobility are highly valued league wide and his value will be high despite the lacklustre last couple years. There's always GMs ready to think a player of his age could still regain lost form in a new situation.
I think Brodie makes the most sense to move because Kulak frankly looked as good as him last year and may be able to take over that spot immediately. And then you've got Valimaki on the left side depth chart and he's probably going to be a top 4 defenseman within 2-3 years so long term you've got Brodie's replacement there as well.
I'm sure management and our scouts have thoughts on whether they think Brodie can rebound. If they have doubts then I think he's the guy you move in order to find another offensive threat. If they have a strong belief that Brodie may rebound for whatever reason then maybe you keep him. I'm leaning towards doubt.