Quote:
Originally Posted by TheSquatch
The odds Z sits first game are none, I would think. Sign a guy for 4 mil a year and sit him out? Not a good look.
That said, playing the oilers, maybe you want the fastest skaters out there, I dunno. I think playing a guy who takes up a lot of ice and has a big reach probably makes sense.
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I don't think Sutter cares too much about a good look. I think the decision ultimately falls on Sutter in that regard. Also, you'd think that with the amount of energy the Flames spend on worrying about a good look they'd be a more attractive destination for players.
Winning, and a winning culture makes you look good as an organization. I get it's only preseason, but Zadorov was Calgary's 7th or 8th best defense-man in preseason. I get that he is a vet, and he gets paid handsomely, but he is a smart enough dude to realize he needs to step up ASAP.
Finally, it was very telling in Sutter's interview today regarding the D. He said he is pretty sure of how Ras and Noah are gonna play. He followed it with
"thankfuly we got Tanny and Erik to give us some stability, and we need other guys to step up". Which essentially means Gudbranson is on the team for the opening game. That leaves 2 spots for Zadorov, Kylington, and Valimaki. Does Kylington sit after a great camp? Does Valimaki sit despite his potential? or Does Zadorov sit despite his contract?