Quote:
Originally Posted by dissentowner
I don't like it, if Huberdeau wants to go into the season without a contract then flip him now while his value is at its highest. We can't risk anything here.
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Agreed, this is a second chance to get a Gaudreau scenario right. The Flames are basically where they were with Gaudreau at this point last season, and this is having had a season of Gaudreau and Tkachuk. Treliving has managed to get a full season from both players, and place himself in a similar situation a year later. Well done, but don't look to go down that path again. The saving factor in this scenario was the additional year of control in respect to Tkachuk, and they won't get a bit at that apple again.
If Huberdeau is not absolutely sold on being here, then you don't overpay him, or enter the season with him on a one year deal. Hoping to convince him to stay in Calgary is bad business, and probably bad for team chemistry. I'm sure the players in the room want him (and Weegar) here, but if he's not signed this is hanging over their head all season, and next summer could an absolute trainwreck for the organization.
Management went above and beyond to create a young core who would want to grow roots in Calgary. I didn't work, but they tried to do it the right way. If neither of these players are actually energized about the opportunity to be a part of something in Calgary, the team should take this opportunity to build a group from ground level that will be proud to represent the city. The last season in Stockton was foundational for several young players, and hopefully the AHL team in Calgary can continue that trend. As someone who has lived in a number of large US metropolitan areas, they all have something to offer, but at the end of the day all movie theaters are air conditioned, every steakhouse serves steaks, and there are guys and gals in each and every nightclub. Never been to Calgary, but I'm sure it's a great place that many players would grow to love if they simply invested in the culture.
The key to long term success involves identifying individuals who are mission centric, and have the ability to truly value those around them. If neither Huberdeau or Weegar are willing to plant roots, doesn't make them bad citizens, they're on the verge of probably the last shot they will have to choose their place of employment, but it would be hard to say they would be centered on a mission of anything beyond a single season of success, and that is something the Flames should be looking to avoid.