Quote:
Originally Posted by shadowlord
Currently, he has 2g 14a 16p in 29gp.
Not sure about his TOI or which pairing he's deployed on though. It would also be good to know if he's on any special teams, or what his role is on the Heat.
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He had a good start with the Heat. IIRC, he went 8pt in 11gp and was being used in a primary role (similar to Mackey). Then he missed a couple games due to injury and didn't get his spot back once he returned.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Vinny01
Derek Wills was saying he heard Valimaki is at best 3rd on the depth chart in Stockton and really made it sound like he has not been good down there from who he has talked to. Not surprised Mackey was called up
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Besides MacKey, Valimaki is competing against:
- Andy Welinski, a veteran tweener and Sutter depth favorite from his time with the Ducks
- Kevin Gravel, a veteran tweener, and a Sutter depth favorite from his time with the Kings
- Nick DeSimone, another veteran AHLer
That's at least four defensemen that are potentially getting preferential treatment ahead of Valimaki.
Valimaki is understandably frustrated with the situation and obviously has more to give. If the coaching staff of the Flames and Heat don't like Valimaki, they should trade him so that yet another highly drafted prospect with potential isn't being wasted