I don't know if anyone could be considered "happy" that Matt Stajan is around to use as a centre, but he certainly couldn't have asked for a better chance to show that he still belongs in the NHL as the Flames lost pivot Mikael Backlund for 6 weeks meaning that the Flames will likely be forced to use Stajan at least until Brendan Morrison is ready.
The scenario should give Matt an extended period of time to impress the coaches and show that he can regain the form that once made him the Leafs #1 centre, (although the argument could easily be made that his position there on the depth chart was more a symptom of much larger issues in TO than an indication of his ability) but I digress.
It was basically a foregone conclusion that Roman Horak would be the #3 centre to start the season as his all-around game has impressed the organization and despite not netting any points, Brent Sutter stated that he was a top 3 centre on the team along with Backlund and Jokinen. With Morrison almost ready to return and David Moss also being tested at centre at times, it looked like Matt Stajan's time in Calgary might have been running short.
He's been granted a stay of execution due to circumstances beyond anyone's control. For once in his time in a Flames uniform, fans hope that Matty Franchise can take advantage of his golden opportunity.
Interesting that Tim Erixon isn't on the Rangers roster and Horak is on the Flames (so far). The ironic thing is: Erixon would have had a far easier time making the Flames blueline than the Rangers.
One last time for the cheap seats: TIM ERIXON NEVER WANTED TO BE A FLAME.
His agent can say whatever he wants, but the truth is staring everyone in the face. Tim was only interested in being a Ranger. I'll call his demotion Karma.
Same goes goes for the conspiracy theorists who want to roll out the ludicrous idea that Horak still being on the roster is an attempt to "save face". That's about as asinine as is gets since not giving yourself the best chance to succeed as a team certainly won't help fans get over a perceived bad deal. This kid is doing all the little things that matter. Don't try to cheapen his success by making up outlandish conspiracy theories.
Have a great day!
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