The more we argue about Marner, the more it becomes apparent just what a ridiculous situation we've put ourselves in. His agent said he wasn't negotiating during the season, that was made quite clear. You knew the kid was poised for a big year, that was also quite clear. So why are we sitting here? Because you had some strategy to sign Nylander first? Sound on one level, but completely lacking pragmatism. Dubas misread the Nylander camp, even though there was every indication from the get go they were playing hardball. As soon as it became apparent that Willie was a real possibility to hold out, I expected some urgency with regard to a Marner, the Dubas strategy now outdated. Many people voiced the dangers letting Marner come into this year without a contract and now here we sit. I'll admit, it's worse than I thought, but that's only because Dubas signed the other two to top dollar, low term, paydays, exasperating the Marner situation.
It's just so disappointing to be sitting here contemplating trading such a treat of a player, when there was another way. I firmly believe we could have locked up Marner for 8ish with term last September. Tons of bonuses, very attractive. And yet...
