Quote:
Originally Posted by kehatch
We don't really have the perspective to qualify if Neal had an entitlement issue or wanted out of Calgary. It certainly fits the current narrative and helps justify the trade. But I am always skeptical that this is a good reason for a trade.
I am sure he was frustrated. The year before he was producing on a line with quality line mates in Vegas and was a highly sought player. Last season he spent most of his time with players like Bennett, Jankowski, Czarnik, etc and his production tanked. Now he was considered an albatross. Most players would be frustrated.
When he did get a chance in the top 6 it was on the shutdown line. He had very limited opportunity on the top line, and only when it was struggling. The coaching staff also seemed reluctant to move Lindholm to C to play with Neal and balancing the lines. I like our coaches and they had good reason, but you can't fault a player for being frustrated in that situation.
Keep in mind that this guy signed a 4 year deal in Calgary when he had a number of options. He was also considered a quality team mate and leader on his previous teams. It is likely a rebound in his second season would have cured any supposed attitude issues.
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There is a reason people can change their opinion, by looking more closely and gathering more information.
On the surface, sure, they both did not meet expectations. Yes, Lucic had a downward trend in points for three seasons.
Guess what? Both players have the same number of points the last 3 years.
Also, Lucic put up over 50 points 3 years ago, and for the first half of 17-18, was on pace for the same.
There are some opinions in this thread that look at what happened at a surface level, then some that look at not only what happened but also how it happened.
Garbage for garbage is the simplest. You can make that case, but it is of no value in trying to figure out which guy stands a better chance of improving.
Lucic could get points with top linemates, in line with his career norms and expectations. Then with AHLers and goons, he can’t. (Big surprise).
Neal could not produce with any line on the Flames. No matter who he played with, he was no good. Top line, middle six, you name it. Made his line mates worse.
Lucic played with guys who are 10 ish point guys on a 4th line. Neal played with roughly 30 point guys, in limited utilization, with some looks with 50-80 point guys. Lucic was better than his line mates. Neal was worse
Wanting a bounce back next year is ignoring the elephant in the room. Neal was not wanted back.