Zack Kassian - doing better for now
- Thread starter I am toxic
- Start date
Pip
Registered User
Man Bear Pig
Registered User
Pathetic post. I'm an alcoholic and it's a struggle. It's a daily battle. 95% of the population really don't understand.
Bergevin traded a player that had just past through waivers for a goalie when his team desperately needed better goaltending. Let's not pretend this was done solely for Kassian's benefit.
I think when trades happen, people have to understand it goes beyond player value VS player value. Of course value is into play, but there are other factors GMs consider.
In Montréal, it is well known that the franchise image is very important. Kassian was warned when he arrived that there wouldn't be a second chance. He had to grab his chance from the start, which he didn't.
What should the GM do? Tell himself "hummm, Kassian has a power forward profile we need on the team, so screw the organization's values and screw what I told him when he arrived". What kind of message does that send to other players on the team? That the GM doesn't hold his ground if he needs you in any way or form. Very bad message to send to an organization.
Bergevin was honest from the start and held his word.
That kind of an attitude is what earns respect from other GM and players around the league. This can lead to players appreciating the values of the team and be willing to sign in Montréal at some point in their carreer.
Of course Bergevin was dealing from a position of weakness when he did and when you only look at player value VS player value, he didn't fare very well. That's obviously the best he could get at the moment he traded. But the respect he got from other GMs, other players, his own players, Kassian himself (for holding his word) will probably have positive impacts in the future that are impossible to measure.
Wretched Oil
Right out of 'er
- Feb 19, 2008
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I don't think he's pathetic for admiring someone who has had some measure of success with his addiction.
Although I agree that most don't understand, it's hard to expect them to as you pretty much have to live it to really know.
Anyways, I absolutely love what he brings to the team. Great energy and a team attitude are making a difference on an Oiler team that has been lacking both.
yoss
Registered User
- May 25, 2011
- 3,006
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Love that guy. Our gm was insane to let him go for what we got back in return. Would love to have him back on this team but we all know that won't happen.
pretty much this.
Good to see him playing well and looks like having fun out there, hopefully he keeps working hard and stays focused. Well played Oilers for picking him up, im SO VERY HAPPY FOR YOU. Oh and CONGRATS ON MCDAVID also.
Please excuse my bitterness, seriously good to see him doing well, hope he keeps it up. B/t Mcjesus, Kass & McLellan I'm becoming a closet Oilers fan despite myself.
BenningHurtsMySoul
Unfair Huggy Bear
I had substance abuse issues while in high school, I got help and now my life is back in order. I know how hard it is but for him to come back (and play in the NHL nonetheless) is astounding and is a true role model tp those who still suffer and he prives that anyone can comeback.
sully1410
#EggosForEleven
OnTheBrink
Registered User
Don't think you are being fair to the poster or are not understanding his post properly. Their is nothing pathetic about looking up to or being happy for someone who is currently on the winning side of his life long battle he will have with addiction.
I am toxic
. . . even in small doses
Scrivens had already cleared waivers and was on the EDM farm team, playing poorly. Chia doesn't use a contract slot on a high risk like Kassian appeared to be to those who dont follow him. If Bergevin doesn't take a contract slot back, the deal doesn't happen.
Of course it wasn't done solely for Kassian's benefit. That's why Bergevin required EDM to retain 24% to be cap neutral. But the point is he went out of his way to give Kassian a fresh start. There are other goalies out there better than Scrivens that were available.
Trading away a guy with alcohol/substance abuse issues, who has come back with 7 points in 24 games...
I think you give Benning far too much credit if you think that is Benning's 'worst mistake'.
I hope Zack turns his life around...but his PPG with Edmonton is actually less than what it was during his stint with Vancouver.
While there's more to it than stat's, you make it sound like we are talking about Cam Neely.
Bourne Endeavor
Registered User
Hope he does well for himself. Loved the guy when he played for Vancouver, but this past year could be the eye opener he needed.
karnige
Real Life FTL
- Oct 18, 2006
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