The proof that Johnny wants to stay will only come when and if he signs an extension.
Unlike Taveras, I doubt the Flames wait until he is a UFA to see if he will return. I assume they are talking contract with him now, even if they can't sign him now. may as well see waht the numbers look like. I bet Johnny wants to have some idea what his market value may be.
Is Johnny the type of player to bet on himself having a big year next year, which could increase his value quite a bit?
Is Calgary willing to make the same bet in advance of seeing if his apparent resurgence under Sutter will continue next year against much stronger competition? The Pacific division next year won't be largely any better than the Canadian division was this year, except they won't be playing 100% of their games against those opponents.
If Johnny truly wants to stay in Calgary, we shouldn't have to wait to long to find out.
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