Quote:
Originally Posted by Duffalufagus
Looks like it is a done deal. What a terrible move by the Flames. got rid of a bad contract for a worse one. if there is no retained salary we just got worse as a hockey team.
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But there is retained salary, and I don't think you could reasonably claim that Neal was a better player than Lucic last season. They're the same age, and Lucic came a bit cheaper. The NMC is the item of most concern in all of this, but I don't think it has made us a worse hockey team this upcoming season no matter how you choose to look at it.
When was the last time a player turned around their career in Edmonton? I have extreme doubts that Neal will magically turn it around in the suckhole. Much better chance that Lucic shakes off a little bit of suck getting out of there. Add the fact that he will actually punch someone (unlike neal) and it could be a net benefit.