Quote:
Originally Posted by PepsiFree
To EE’s point, I assume anyone complaining and wanting to run Huberdeau out of town (much like the comments about Huska) are either not interested in rebuilding, or are evidence that the prediction that some people wouldn’t be able to handle an actual rebuild was true. Based on the poll results, I assume the latter comprise the vast majority.
When you’re a rebuilding team, especially one that wants to maintain the perception of being “competitive” while picking high, having high salary guys that severely under perform is a good thing, not a bad thing.
If Huberdeau suddenly finds the magic again after the influx of young talent, that’s a bonus. But for now he’s exactly the type of player you want in a rebuild. He can shelter young guys, help you meet the cap floor, but isn’t going to drag you out of the basement.
|
Frankly amid all the whining about him, I don't think his game or effort are anything different than the rest of the team right now. Which isn't good, but watching the last couple games, he's no different than anyone else. They've all started 2026 just in a funk. Even Backlund and Coleman took their feet way off the gas. Kadri has phoned it in as much or more, so has Frost. Klapka didn't assert himself at all last night.
Last night Huberdeau had zero giveaways compared to a couple each for Kadri, Sharkey, Zary, Frost and Farabee. He only had one hit, but that was more than Kadri, Coronato, Lomberg (!), and Sharangovich.
The night before Huberdeau had a giveaway, but still that was less than Kadri and Sharangovich, and the same as every other forward in the top 6. Plus he led the team in shots with Coleman and Farabee (4 each).
I know he makes a lot, but as has been discussed a lot, that's pretty irrelevant. He's not playing very well, but I don't think it's him as much as the team at the moment. Name me a player who is playing well. There's maybe two or three names among the forwards this season.