I'm still not a Franson fan, but I thought his decision making in the defensive zone is much better this year, and he is using his size better. He can still make dumb plays on the offensive blueline, and his skating is horrendous, but he has an elite shot on the PP and can PK. He can be a great #5-#6 defender, and will only get better if he can understand his lack of speed is an issue, and can play a safer game (Hal Gill). Our prospects are playing a safer game that I have heard the coaches are preaching (Less pinching, better gap control).
My problem with Franson is, if Gardiner/Rielly take over top PP with Phaneuf in the future, why pay a #5-6D, who also plays 2nd PP/2nd PK, 3.3M a year. Surely there are cheaper RHD options, or young guys who will be able to step up and take over that role. Maybe not his role as a #4D, 1st PP, and 2nd PK from last season, but I didn't even want him doing that in the first place.