[DeluxeMoustache]

Originally Posted by Locke

While I dont think you're wrong, and from an ownership perspective I can understand why they'd want that, I imagine from a PA perspective thats a 'Hill to Die On' and I'd understand why.

But further, the thing is...I think a big reason hockey and the NHL hasn't expanded like other sports is that the talent pool just isn't as deep.

There is a huge gulf between real, top-line big-name NHLers and the AHL equivalents.

For instance...as a Soccer fan, you can probably nab some 16-year olds out of Germany, France, Spain or England, slap 'em together and they'd tool MLS teams as a joke.

Hockey isnt the same. An AHL All-Star could be waiver-wire fodder, the Gap is HUGE.

Its tough to round out your rosters with jobbers from the 'A' these days and there just isnt enough talent or Cap to go around.

And while thats true, what there is enough to go around is 'Blame.'

GMs are paying too much, Agents are pushing too hard, PA is keeping anything in check and are essentially useless unless its a lockout and frankly...how can you lay blame on players for trying to maximize their compensation? They're the ones putting in the time, effort and their bodies on the line.

Its like 4-way tug-of-war. Possibly even more. Owners, Agents, PA, Players, Coaches, minor affiliates...you could go on and on.

Thinking about what your saying, then the moneyball approach is of crucial importance as well

If talent is scarce and fungible to a lesser degree, must there not have to be more opportunity for good GMs to outsmart a set of poor GMs ?