Dube, Mangiapane, Huberdeau, Lindholm, Duehr - these players all took hits in production this year and all looked like they didn't fit.
Most of them are looking better. Duehr and Dube are the only two that are really looking terrible still. Mangiapane is improving noticeably, as are Lindholm and Huberdeau.
Based on his body of work, and how committed he is to this franchise, I would give him the benefit of the doubt. Yes, he has looked horrible most of the season. Yes, I do think he is the Flames worst player on the ice most nights now. I agree, 100% there.
I still see a player who shows a tonne of leadership (like the tidbit of him driving Sharangovich around), how he takes young players under his wing (like Coronato) and helps them become better pros, how he plays hard and always works hard, is fantastic skater, hits surprisingly like a truck sometimes, and has had two 18 goal seasons in a row prior to this. Plus, he is the fittest Flame, which is awesome too since as mentioned he helps the young guys become pros.
I am personally giving him the benefit of the doubt for this season. New coach, new system, bouncing around the lineup, and probably things getting away from him this season, most likely his confidence. I would rather hold onto him for another season or two (especially if the Flames are going to be doing a bit of reset anyway). There are so many intangibles there with him that make me believe that patience would be a fantastic investment with him right now. Everyone else seems to be finding their games again, and I hope he finds his game this season. If not, then I hope that something can be worked out for him next season, and that he is given a shot at rebounding. The work ethic is there - on and off the ice - so one poor season (and it has been horrible) is not enough for me to cut ties yet.
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