Saturday, February 09, 2008

Another "Turris to Turn Pro at End of Season" Article

Ken Campbell from the Sporting News writes that multiple sources in the Phoenix organization are pushing hard to have Turris leave the Badgers at the end of their season to join the Coyotes and help them chase a playoff spot. I'm not sure how much stock I put in the report since the guy doesn't seem to have a clue the Badgers are "on the bubble" for the NCAA's and he mentions they play in the WCAC instead of WCHA. Also, the fact that Phoenix is on the edge for a playoff spot seems to be the reason everyone may be looking for him to join the team, rather than his development which is completely backwards.

I think Maloney should and will consider Turris' development, not the position of the Coyotes in the NHL playoff race or how much they may need him. Why risk a potential star's development over a short-term playoff push IF it is not right for his development? The sources Campbell quotes are probably some of the geniuses who specialize in the short-term thinking that has helped lead the Coyotes to their place as doormats over the past several years.

Bottom line, Turris' development should be all that is considered and not where the team stands now or where they could be if he joined them. If they lose sight of that everyone will know they haven't changed at all and wish to remain a perennial cellar dweller. Maloney has been very consistent in what he has said since Turris was drafted, and how he has handled these situations with other players. I don't think he is going to do something that is not in the best interest of the player and the team's long-term future for a short-term gain, IF that is how they see Turris' development.

IF Turris' development would be helped by joining the Coyotes after his college season is over, then best wishes to him. I just think it is tough for some people to look past the potential short-term gain and only consider the player's development.