Quote:
Originally Posted by mrchristy31
I find it ironic that 99% of the conversations get back to the Flames failing to develop Bennett (along with all other failed prospects). I am, and was as big of a Bennett fan as anybody, but ultimately, the #1 goal for management and coaching is to win. That means putting the players out that give you the best chance to win on a nightly basis. Unfortunately for Sam, his stupid penalties regularly cost the Flames and outweigh the pros.
Where the Flames failed Bennett, is not sending him back to the AHL to work on his stick control, discipline, and to gain confidence in his 20YO season. At this point, if they want to develop Bennett, make him run D positioning drills in practice without his stick.
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Not going to disagree that he could improve his discipline but Backlund is right up there when it comes to bad penalties and he takes it a step further usually taking his bad penalties at the end of the 2nd or 3rd period putting the team in a big bind. People complained about Hamilton's discipline as well but I think that's a tradeoff anyone will take for one of the highest scoring defensemen in the league. Discipline is not the reason Bennett has disappointed. I would take a player with jam over a ghost like Jankowski anyday. His game just hasn't progressed from his days as a junior player. He probably would have benefitted from a year in the AHL but eventually he's going to have to figure it out himself.