They hated that he asked for a trade. I did not hear, or read anywhere that there was much dislike for him, let alone "hatred" before that. The fan base was pissed that he wanted out. They were scared they were going to get screwed in the trade. The hatred came after the request for the trade.
No documentary, you just needed to research the trade when it happened. You could have read the Jets user forums and watched the local sports media during that time. Even though he slumped the last half of last year (like most of the team), most of the fans and media in Winnipeg felt he was their best player last year. They were not happy that he asked for a trade. They were not happy with Wheeler's play and attitude last year. That was the player that they showed hatred for.
Are you kidding? His skill set is of a very, very good No. 1 NHL center. Kind of a mix between Kopi and Byfield, really. Big, fast, strong, terrific vision, good passer, good shot, soft hands. Can't take the puck from him if he is playing with motivation. When he wants to, he can dominate games. He could be point per game guy. He doesn't want to enough is the problem. That's what makes him so frustrating. Blessed with a ton of physical gifts but not enough desire.
No I’m not kidding…. When has he shown any of those things? The fact I’m legitimately asking isn’t a trick question. Quite frankly- Danault looks like a far better player. No one questions if danault is a legit nhl 2nd/3rd line center. No one asks because he clearly is.
I remember Dennis Bernstein saying on satellite radio that he was someone Blake had been targeting for a long time even before the acquisition occurred. He wasn't really on my radar until he became a King, but I am thoroughly confused and unimpressed. I don't remember exactly but I seem to remember his lackadaisical skating and passing leading to the go ahead goal for the Ducks last night.I researched PLD a bit when the trade occurred though I'll admit I dont have a PHD in PLD, and I said here why in the hell are we trading for this guy and most everyone said how great of a trade it was that we have a legit beast mode oiler killing playoff machine badass mofo 2C for EIGHT YEARS and how wrong I am. That's about all I remember from my research
If PLD had 1/4 of Richards compete level I’d be satisfied.
From what I have seen so far this season, he looks like a high quality second line forward who is: good at protecting the puck, has a knack for being in the right place, has strong net front presence, is able to make passes in tight spaces (usually in front of the net) and is probably the best on the team when it comes to deflections. On the flip side: his defense is lacking (especially at center), he doesn't always show a desire to compete, and he seems below average at faceoffs. Additionally his lack of PP time is hurting his production significantly.
On a completely different note, do you know how long I read your name to be Dr. Ice? LOL
Yes he has been the 1st star of a game more than once this season. Also he won't be our highest paid forward until next season but there is no doubt that he is currently overpaid for what he is producing.
What can I say if you don't see it? The same thing was said about Byfield a lot. The big difference with Byfield was that at 20 he had time to grow his game, and he has, and I expect he will keep growing it.
The ability to keep this thread alive?
