manilaNJ
Optimism: Unwavering
I have no problem with Josefson being sent down. I don't think he's been horrid, he hasn't been a liability. You always want to see more from him, though. He's still too slight. It was an opportunity to Loktionov up and see what he brings to the table.
I have more of an issue with the way Matteau is being handled. He's 18, he needs to play games. Now that we've brought in Ponikarovsky, Zubrus eventually coming back, and guys like Josefson and Loktionov that you can call up on a dime, how many games is he really going to see? There's only so much you can learn in a pressbox.
I agree. I'd give him a couple of games with Loki in the lineup to see how it goes.
After that happens, send him back.
When Zubrus is healthy, we'll have more than enough pieces to roll 4 great lines.
(On the condition that a defenseman is traded, as well)
Matteau knows what it takes to compete at the NHL level, he knows what he needs to work on... but I think he can be so much better if he's given a little more time to season.