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Originally Posted by TheScorpion
I have zero doubt that Phillips possesses NHL-calibre skill and speed. Whether he can translate to the next level, at his size, is up for debate. There's only one way to prove it, and there is sky-high upside and play-driving ability with him.
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I have zero doubt Phillips lacks NHL size. I am also very skeptical his skill translates to the NHL. If he were NHL talent he would be in the NHL and the team would not have loaded up on known quantities, as limited as they were. They would have rolled the dice on Phillips, Gawdin, and Ruzicka. Obviously the team does not see the upside in bringing in a tiny player on a team that is already small by NHL standards. You can gush all over his play in a very limited AHL season, but that does not mean he is prepared or capable of playing in the NHL. The jump between the AHL and NHL is so great it is hard for people to comprehend.
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The Flames' current depth winger options feature very little to none of that same upside. They can either choose to deploy guys who have proven to be inadequate, or they can reward somebody who has earned a chance with his fantastic play.
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If he's earned his chance he will get his chance. Obviously the Flames don't believe he's earned anything, or he would be with the team. People just don't appreciate the importance of size in the professional game.