CanuckinOz wrote:
Yeah I don't get the Kassian deal at all. I thought we were trying to get younger and acquire picks....Good Luck to Kass, I think he still has lots of upside
I'd like to throw in my 2 cents on this trade. I don't mind this trade at all...
Prust will
NOT likely be a liability to Vancouver in the upcoming season. Most likely he will be an asset, as well a good mentor/example for young players. Pretty low risk. They know what they are getting. Dependable, consistent, 200ft player, hard working, even if a tad slower than years before. With Richardson gone, he'll be a great replacement as a PK specialist who adds an element of toughness and is only 1 year older. Perfect for a short term addition.
Despite rarely playing against top six opponents, Kassian was a minus player on a perennial plus team since he arrived in Vancouver. Due to his inconsistent effort, he was a poor mentor/example for young players and the team in general. He also takes lots of dumb, ill timed penalties. He'll score a few more goals, but he'll also likely be on the ice for more than his share against. There is a certain amount of risk here which may adversely affect his new team in multiple ways. Despite the wishes of many Canuck fans, he's not worth that much, especially considering he has not even remotely lived up to expectations (despite many opportunities), and is injury prone.
The Canucks will likely only need Prust for one year, possibly 2 if he comes cheap and impacts the youth and other teammates even more than expected. The Canucks don't need Kassian moving forward with their expected offensive youth coming up soon. His size & toughness was
rarely effective or beneficial and, IMO, was overshadowed by his weaknesses. Montreal is looking for more offense and size. I wish them luck with Kassian, who does have decent hands, and their very minor cap space savings.
If MB can perform miracles on Kassian and get him responsible and play consistently with his head & heart (a big IF), the Habs will do fine with this trade.
I'm pretty sure the Canucks will immediately benefit from the trade for Prust and not miss Kassian at all. Can the Habs honestly say the same thing about trading for Kassian? MB has rolled the dice (albeit a small wager) but I not sure I like his odds.
The fifth round pick given back to Montreal reflects this.
BTW the Canucks can easily get back that 5th round pick (likely more) before the trade deadline by moving Prust. I'd rather see JV (or another young player) get a chance plus Prust, than another year of Kassian and a 5th.
This trade IS about the youth movement while still keeping the team competitive and motivated. Protecting and mentoring our youth... something Kassian would not have given the Canucks.
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