It is too bad Pelletier was waiver eligible this year. I think next season is where the organization won't be able to hide kids, as Honzek and Parekh will both be sure-fire starters on the team, perhaps Gridin (as Huska expects him to challenge for a spot), the Flames first round pick from this upcoming draft, and maybe another surprise or two. A handful of prospects become waiver-eligible next season, so there will be more exposed.
I argue that this is an unnecessary risk this season, at least when you factor-in that Pelletier had a great start to his pro career, with only one poor season where he got injured.
Either Conroy is pretty sure that Pelletier will not be claimed... or Conroy has an eye on someone else whom he wants to claim, and will try to sneak Pelletier down now instead. Maybe Conroy simply feels that Pelletier doesn't have enough upside to warrant protection now.
I do think that both Honzek and Klapka went beyond expectations and certainly solidified themselves in this lineup. They both deserve to be here, unquestionably. It is probably the right thing to do. I do think it will cost Pelletier, but you never know. I haven't see whom else was waived around the league, so maybe he passes.
I think Cooley and Schwindt will both pass.
Sad for Pelletier really. However, congratulations to both Honzek and Klapka! I am keeping my fingers crossed for Pelletier.
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