Quote:
Originally Posted by Owen15
Honestly, I was fairly certain this is where things were going. OK said a few times in a veiled way “you know where my loyalty lies” but deep down I was thinking why would he sign here? This is probably the last place I’d sign if I had other options in the current situation. Careers in the NHL are not very reliable. And god knows we are heading into a couple of tough years here.
I like OK. Hope whatever happens it’s good for him. Maybe Flames too. Who knows.
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I don’t necessarily agree. This isn’t a player who is nearing the end of a long career with aspirations of getting a Stanley Cup. If anything, I would say this is his best bet of getting more playing time on a sub par team. The opportunity is certainly there for him and he doesn’t have much leverage since he’s been away for so long. It’s pretty much a guaranteed roster spot with very little competition. He can certainly test the market but Calgary gives him a ton of opportunity given the state of the current roster.
If he can find a better situation that gives him a longer term then all the best to him but I don’t see many GM’s wanting to take a risk on a guy would could potentially go on leave again given his mental health status. I hope other franchises would extend the same support the Flames did, but they also need to be mindful of his health status prior to committing long term.