I honestly don't think that will be an issue. The team values Cole very highly as a foundational piece going forward.I mean sure, if they want to do that the rest of the season I think it is dumb but can somewhat understand that. Also the last two games were against trash teams, not sure how much value I put in those tbh.
If going forward into next season you have players like that blocking a better player cause of 'fit' you are failing.
You can see by how they started him in the top 6 this year and kept them there for quite a while after he started to struggle, and then played him on the 4th for quite a while too even though stylistically he doesn't really fit there.
There are a lot of decisions to be made in the offseason regarding this team and I think by natural attrition there will be a spot for Cole.
I don't believe both of Tiny Eyes or Moneyhands will re-sign - it's very possible neither will. As much as I wouldn't mind seeing them return, I'd rather they didn't as it gives the team a chance to put Cole back where he belongs, a year more mature, and also potentially integrate one of our youngsters into the lineup.
It's going to be a very interesting offseason as we have some potential for movement on the back end, too.
Will Dillon and or Demelo re-sign?
Will Miller stick around?
Will Stanley have played his way back into the equation, or is that relationship kind of over?
Will Schmidt get traded or bought out?
Will Heinola be ready and able to re-seize that roster spot he had appeared to have earned in camp?
Will Capobianco get a spot or be moved? I really can't see him being happy to play on the Moose again next year - I think he's been a great soldier and has earned a real NHL opportunity. If the Jets can't give it to him they should move him to allow him to have that.
We could see a very different D corps next year.