I don't know why anyone is talking about buying out Nathan Horton. Buyouts (if that remains) would not happen until this summer and he's a UFA after this season, so, non-issue. You either opt to re-sign him or not.
I know BJ and others are not too keen on Horton and I can understand some of that. He's not a first line all-star winger but if he's your second line RW, you are a pretty good team. I don't buy that he floats too much of the time but you have to admit he can be streaky. But also has come up big in the clutch too. Good but imperfect, maybe we can leave it there.
It all comes down to his role and his salary. If those are properly managed - and he's healthy - I think he's a real asset and I enjoy him quite a bit. Lucic and Horton for a fair wage and as 2nd line wingers, that I'm onboard with. If he needs a big time contract and takes a 1st line spot/pay for several years, I can see why that's fair to debate at length. But we shall see how it all plays out...
Tis all about health with me Black Eye, there`s always been streaky players and I don`t have massive issues with those players if they are working hard when things aren`t necessarily clicking. I don`t often see Horty as a guy who floats much but he does become a spectator from time to time....I really didn`t like watching the Horton who returned from concussion at the beginning of the year last year, the one who rarely engaged in any contact, who showed little to no puck assertion, exceptionally hesitant.
Now, I understand and respect how a concussion can and should have a player concerned about or confident that he can absorb the same hits as he once did previously however, his game was so hesitant that it hurt the team. Once he started rounding back into shape, he was "hit" again by Sestito and we are where we are now, in limbo of course about how he`ll return.
My hope is he comes back with that fire, that willingness to engage (smartly of course) that we have come to know and respect. I get that he isn`t going to go out there and drop the mitts every time someone asks him to go and that`s ok, you just have to play different after a concussion, but different doesn`t mean without any physical aspect to your game.
Bergy`s a great example of a player who has made some adjustments. Although always a bit shifty along the boards, we see him consistently aware at all times where the opponent is, where and when he needs to stop and change directions etc....
I`m hoping he answers the questions early and often in the form of solid play, if or when that happens, I`d be more than willing and happy to have him remain a Bruin but it`s a business, and if Nate performs under his potential, doesn`t show confidence in being able to play the way he needs to in order for success, then.....
