Sorry if a lot of this is repeat stuff, I haven't read the thread.
My two cents on the trade-
Neal was obviously underperforming, but I commended him for his previous play (as a non-Flame), and his charity work in Calgary. He actually got on the ice with kiddos several times as he partnered with 'Power Play.' Not only that, but he's just such a nice guy, I so wanted him to do well. (Obviously charity doesn't win hockey games, I get it)
I know it's my 'mom' nature, but I am sad to see him go.
With that being said, Lucic is actually a very impressive player, having overcome a lot of issues to be a successful NHLer, including a disease in his spine, which he never complains about. The kid has had a lot of heart (not last year of course).
Lucic is also a charitable guy. In Boston he participated in the celebrity/athlete softball tournament (can't remember the name of it)(every year I think, or several times anyway). He also did the 'Hockey Helps Kids' thing in Edmonton. Hopefully he'll start something in Calgary.
I remember reading something or maybe watching something where he said he preferred playing in the US to Canada and hated the cold in Edmonton, but who wouldn't hate being there? I loved that he owned up to not getting it done in Edmonton.
My hope- he can add some toughness, and he's used properly- as a role player
My fear- he's slow, and most of the Flames are not, and his slowness provided plenty of opportunities for goals against Oilers.
We can complain about Treviling trading one trainwreck for another disaster, but I think supporting the move and hoping for the best is more productive. Maybe BT gets fired for making a colossal dumb trade, and maybe Lucic hoists another cup over his head in a red flaming jersey, we shall see.
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