Author's note - Testing out a new feature today where I float an issue surrounding the Leafs in particular, or the league in general, and invite you to have your say. If you're eloquent enough, maybe you'll convince the rest of us to side with you. Be sure to rec those comments you find most convincing! So please keep your elbows tucked and no biting. It's time to see if you've got what it takes to sit in the big chair...
I have many leather-bound books and my apartment smells of rich mahogany.
Congratulations, it seems you've passed the first test. Next up is the Leafs traffic jam of smallish, undersized centers. We've seen the skill and creativity Tyler Bozak brings to the Leafs, but on the depth chart, he's still buried behind Stajan and Grabovski for those top two slots. It makes no sense to give Tyler third line minutes, or does it?
You're the GM, now you've got some work to do. Are you calling up Bozak and giving him a permanent spot in the top two lines? If so, how are you going to do that? Who gets moved, and for what?
If you think a year on the farm is what's called for, then state your case as to why. What keeps Bozak out of the big club? What does he need to work on? How will he get those opportunities on the Marlies? Who will he play with?
Remember, this isn't an EASports game, this is real (in a not-real-at-all kind of way.) Keep in mind the long term and short term goals of the franchise. Every player is an asset and has value. It's up to you to determine the value and target some partners who may want to ante up to your asking price if trading is your route. If it's keeping Tyler in the AHL for a year, it's up to you to determine his career path and potential, and when you expect him to make the Leafs.
For every how, there is a why, what and when. Let's hear your thoughts.
AND...in case you needed a reminder of Tyler Bozak's skills, have a look at video clips one and two.