Ladd has a history as a NHL captain and multiple Stanley cup winner - for as much as fans crap on the guy, he’s providing some off ice value to the Isles.
If they can move him for the benefit of the team, then based on MIN deal, he’ll go to get ice time. However, he does seem amenable to the situation the Isles have him in (and he’s put himself in by continuing to ‘play’).
One truly has to honor the guys commitment there. He probably could have had a doctor write him off - pun intended, but hasn’t.
Ladd has definitely accomplished a lot in his NHL career and I am hoping he enjoys the ride this season on the taxi squad, but then comes to his senses and both Ladd and the Isles find some reasonable accord to part ways in the off season.
He barely looked competent in the AHL last year and, while we haven't seen him this season, if Lou and Trotz aren't using him on the ice in the AHL, over say a middling vet like Knuckles or career AHL talent like Jeff Kubiak (who can play center but it extremely limited otherwise), then he is probably cooked.
It is extremely doubtful that Ladd will ever make it back to the NHL in a meaningful capacity, even with an expansion team diluting the talent level next season, given the extent of his injuries. At this point, Ladd is probably in worse physical shape than say Hickey.
If it is just more of a desire to hang around and enjoy the NHL-player lifestyle, then that is a detriment to the Isles and ultimately for Ladd (even if he is not ready to face the truth).
Instead, he should be focusing on his next stage of his career and decide if he wants to stay in the Isles organization and in hockey by moving to a coaching, scouting or front office role (mentored by some of the best in the biz), or ultimately be exiled to Robidas Island.
My hope is that something can be worked out after Ladd's next bonus payment, which amicably resolves the situation for all parties concerned.
