because he competed against his peers and earned a roster spot. He then continued on to produce and was on pace for .... before involuntarily getting injured.
While competing for a roster spot he made his peers better and bought rookies some development time.
You cant count on anyone to be in the lineup for the whole season.. Do you turn on McDavid if goes out for another long stretch? Nurse? Klefbom? Who cares as long as you are playing good when healthy. Pitlick was a loose cannon creating havoc for opponents.
he earned it, and I feel he lost it by getting hurt yet again.
you're defending a guy with a career total of what, 14 NHL points, who averages less than half a season played. every single year.
this isn't McDavid, or even a Nurse or Klefbom level player. it's a fringe player. a 4th line player who is hurt for most of each season.
I'd feel the same if it was Hendricks, Lander or any scrub that can be replaced if he can't stay in the lineup and contribute.