Quote:
Originally Posted by FlamesAddiction
I think the failure to come to a long term deal at the time planted the seeds for sure. The team didn't show faith in him and then gave him the temptation of becoming a UfA at age 25. I think after that bridge deal was made, everything would have had to have gone perfect for him to sign a long term deal after that point. It was reported by insiders that Tkachuk wanted to be named captain, which isn't something that a player asks for if they are already 100% planning to leave. I just don't think Tkachuk felt respected and once Johnny left, that was the final straw. I actually don't blame him. He was our franchise player, but management wouldn't treat him that way, so he went somewhere where they would.
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He seemed well cemented as a Flame at one point, I think that all changed after the incident, and no Johnny probably confirmed his feeling to move on. Seeing how he is playing now makes me wonder if the Flames are pumping the brakes too much on our top player. The idea that we don't have the right talent for Huberdeau doesn't seem right. Florida called Tkachuk a generational player and gave him the reins to prove it. Even if Tkachuk is not a generational player it is the belief in the player that gets him to raise his game. Sutter made comments about Huberdeaus passing skill, but never really gave him the reins. My guess is Sutter wanted a defense first player, in a system It doesn't play to Huberdeau's strengths. For a player who's an exceptional passer Huberdeau must be feeling a bit confused about his role.