If character wasn't an issue, why would Peterborough be trying to move him before the season starts? I don't know what rumors to believe, I've only seen it posted from OHL Insiders, who made it seem like the Petes would trade him for anything to avoid having him on the team come September.
I've defended Merkley, it's pretty obvious he has shitty body language and I don't think anyone has seen him actually put in an honest effort, but he makes plays and I know a goal is just a tip away when he has the puck on his stick. If Peterborough is looking to move him, it validates everyone that said he's a locker room drain or un-coachable.
Either attitude is an issue and Wilson and the Petes think they can do something better without his dynamic talent, or attitude isn't an issue and the Petes are looking to trade him for a similar return....why? There's something fishy with these rumors and I tend to believe it's an attitude issue.
That said, I paid a lot of money for season tickets and hope to see Merkley on that blueline.