I am 100% convinced that Huberdeau would have experienced a drop-off in his points had he stayed in Florida, though probably not by as much as he experienced here in Calgary. Florida changed their systems and style of play. He would have had more familiarity and comfort with the existing players, as well as not having such a change in lifestyle, but I do think he was going to have a large drop-off in points.
Yes, Huberdeau's contract isn't great, but I love the guy. I don't think he ever really stopped competing, even during that first miserable season here for him. He also never shied away from the cameras and made himself available constantly, never once blamed the team, the systems, the coach or his teammates and took 100% responsibility instead. Now he has found a way to be a very effective player. Bloated contract? Sure, but it isn't nearly as bad as it once was, and he does so much more on the ice in every zone now too that doesn't show up on the counting stats.
It is really hard not to cheer for him. Everybody loves a redemption story, and I really believe that Huberdeau has redeemed himself here. Zero complaints about the guy. I have him as the next team captain too for reinventing himself, holding himself accountable, being a leader on the team and just bearing down.
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