I don't think there's much point in comparing Neal's performance in Edmonton to his performance in Calgary. He's being gifted prime minutes with one of the top players in the world. The only way the Flames could potentially replicate that would be to cement him onto the top line so he can feed on the production of Gaudreau and Monahan. And then you have to tell Lindholm he's demoted even though he makes his linemates better instead of requiring them to carry him. Plus, you risk reducing overall production on that line just to try and boost Neal's numbers.
The guy clearly didn't deserve a top line spot in Calgary and then put in about 10% effort during games. Do you give in and give him what he wants, give up and accept this is the new reality, or trade him to a team where he will be a clear top line player and get back someone who is far less skilled but willing to accept the role they're given? Not an enviable position for Treliving to be in but he did it to himself with another bad FA signing.
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