Quoting: Fox_Czar_Cup
And still not trusted by coaches, who know a bit more about the kids than us armchair GMs/coaches
This is the "uninformed public opinion"... I'll copy/paste what I already said on the subject since I'm not really "passionate" about Brannstrom and don't wish to go much further. I knew for a while that he wouldn't be in the Sens plans, basically since they drafted Sanderson. I initially thought that maybe they would move him to RD but they've been reluctant to do so since the beginning. We were wondering why until Dorion explained it... it's not an option.
So here's a summary of factors of why Brannstrom is not in the NHL actually :
- Not part of long term plans (Chabot/Sanderson/Kleven on LD)
- Doesn't require waivers unlike the 7 other D-men on 1-way contracts. No injuries currently
- They don't want him to play on RD, so less opportunities because there's already a logjam on LD
- DJ Smith simply doesn't seem to be a fan of players below 6'0
- Brannstrom will eventually play in the NHL regularly and he'll be good. Probably as soon as he leaves Ottawa
- Sens have been taking their time with several prospects. EB just turned 22 y/o, it's not like he was old for a D-man. He's the same age as Batherson rookie season last year. Drake could have played in the NHL earlier (he was over PPG in AHL at 20) but when you are rebuilding, you have the luxury to take your time.
- He's already the 2nd best offensive D-man currently signed, and the best PP QB
- His defensive issues are overstated, his transition and zone exits are already good, he knows how to move the puck. He's good when paired with Zub. Problem is Chabot also need Zub. Lack of good RDs hurt the team.
- Dorion doesn't have any idea about asset management. May I remind you that he waived Rudolfs Balcers last season when he could have waived one of Paquette, Anisimov or Galchenyuk
etc etc