Quote:
Originally Posted by DeluxeMoustache
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Look at the Flames record with Bennett in and out of the lineup, and compare to the team’s records with Peters vs. Ward.
If I’m Bennett, and this is truly a healthy scratch, I may consider looking long and hard at a trade request. Best skater in the playoffs, when things matter, and never gotten a decent chunk of games top 6 after his rookie season
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Well Flames had a 7 game winning streak without him, and before he got injured, Flames record wasn't all that great either. So I don't think that really proves the point that's he's beneficial to the Flames.
And while I question the continued use of Backlund in the top 6, Bennett hasn't really proved, or rather earned top 6 time himself either. Backlund at least has a history of being productive in a top 6 role over seasons. If Bennett is gonna get his shot, it's clear he's gonna have to earn it, and the coaching staff is not just going to give it to him.
If he is good enough to be a player that could stick in the top 6, then he should at least be productive in the bottom 6 role where he currently is presently. The idea is that the player bumped up to the top 6 would compliment, and make their linemates produce better, rather than those linemates having to uplift the player to finally make them productive.
As much as I would like to see Bennett get extended time with Johnny and Mony, he hasn't made a case for himself this season to get that chance. Bennett needs to make #### happen on his own to earn the promotion. Just like Mangiapane has. And for how long we've been saying this, and how many coaches he's had at this point, it's likely just not going to happen.