Quote:
Originally Posted by Geeoff
IMO signing Neal was the big mistake and this deal is just a symptom.
We get the pick if Neal scores 21 goals and Lucic scores 10 fewer, so basically we don't get the pick
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This is how I see it as well, especially after what we went through with Brouwer. BT gambled again by giving Neal sizable contract with term. Both Brouwer and Neal handicapped team flexibility on the ice in terms of poor play while taking up a roster spot.
The fact that we had to trade Neal for Lucic speaks volumes about this being a mistake and a setback short and long term. BT had a player in mind in Brouwer and Neal but probably should have given those spots to a young guy who wants to earn a spot. Either go for an elite player or develop one and save cap space.