I've just read through all the posts since my last comment (sorry work got in the way, and by the way that OT section on Bailey was unexpected!) and here is my problem.
Strome is on the outside looking in because of centre depth right? I think we can all agree on that. (BTW I am not knocking the Grabovski signing, I liked it.)
So imagine Strome goes to the AHL and we get an injury at centre so he gets called up. Who moves to centre? I'm guessing not Strome, probably Nelson because he has been up longer, bigger body down the middle etc and I'm not saying I disagree with that decision really...
Which of course leaves Strome playing wing right? And here is my problem.
IF Strome is going to get called up on an injury, chances are (8 wingers vs 4 centres) it will be a wing injury, so he plays wing. But if it is an injury at centre I expect he plays wing anyway. So where is the value in keeping him off the NHL roster on the basis that he shouldn't be playing wing?
Pre-season is short and should be put in the context of previous play and contribution to the team and Stromes was strong on his second call up. Sending him down now still feels like he is being shafted just because he is waiver eligible. I know this flexibility is good for the team but it doesn't stop me feeling bad for him.
As has been mentioned, there are some serious roster decisions coming up over the next year and it is my lack of confidence in the coaching staff that makes me nervous about how players are being handled.
EDIT: And another thought, we have most of our centres under contract for a few years so won't we just be having this conversation next year too if Strome isn't asked to play wing at some point this season? I'd prefer him at centre but someone has to move eventually for that to happen.
