I remember when we drafted Nazem Kadri. It was a time when we actually got to draft in the first round. It's amazing how excited you can get about a first round selection...
I remember his NHL debut. Actually, it's his only NHL game. He was an emergency call-up against the Sharks and we all expected he'd make the team out of training camp this year. At least I did. Instead, he was sent to the Marlies and only a month and half ago Brian Burke dropped this little quote on us:
His play right now indicates that he’s not ready at all to contribute at this level.
That line broke my heart. Here in Toronto, we eat our young. I'm thinking of my buddy Justin Pogge and the countless other "future greats" who crumbled under the weight of our sky high expectations. Kadri was deemed "not ready" by our GM and then went on to record five goals and nine assists through 14 games with the Marlies. I guess he's ready now...
It might reek of desperation, but it's given tonight's game an additional spark. I know I'll be watching #43 closely tonight... unless he's wearing #91 or #13. In under an hour, we'll know exactly what to do.
Update: He's #43. Set your sights accordingly.
