Quote:
Originally Posted by jeffmacrealtor
Sorry guys I'm not a usual poster (years actually) so I apologize for being an interloper in your discussion. I thought I would lurk today but decided to spew an opinion.
This is going to sound like I'm Don Cherry but to me it's time to consider not drafting Americans anymore. They all just leave as soon as they are 27. Tkachuk is not going to stay either.
Sounds a bit dramatic but I would focus on Western Canadian players who have roots here.
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It's more an issue with NCAA players than American players IMO. They seem to be far more attached to their home areas than other players.
That's something all NHL GMs are aware of, and it's factored into draft rankings. Keep in mind we drafted Gaudreau in the 4th round, not the top 10.
Things could have worked out different for the Flames for sure, but picking players like Gaudrau in the 4th round is not where corrections need to be made. If we can continue to get franchise level players that play 8 seasons for the Flames with 4th round picks, I'm all for that.