Quoting: Capitalfail67
So was Yak he was a 1st overall and call Laf $10 in the future and MT $5 now would lead you to believe he’s 2x the player when maybe he’s $6-$7in the future.(if everything goes right) Unless you think Laf is a 90-100 point guy
I had a feeling you were gonna bring up Yakapov. lol
The difference an elite player can make above an average 1st line player is enormous which is why I used the 5 to 10 analogy.
You can debate the exact value.
Listen, I hear your point, but taking the "proven" player in a situation like this is a formula for missing out on a top player.
Here is an example I'll never forget that is of course unique but offers some similarities...
I once debated with someone who thought the Leafs should trade Matthews to avoid having to pay him huge $ after his ELC.
The mock trade suggested was: OEL, Domi, Strome, 1st rounder for Matthews.
At the time, OEL was pretty dominant, Domi was young and had a similar (just similar, relax) offerings as Tkachuk with a blend of skill and snarl, Strome was a future top line centre.
Looking at the trade now it looks ridiculous, but at the time there was huge debate saying the Leafs would have to consider...
I apologize for the long story, but its an example of people being short sighted with young players. Matthews was good, but he wasn't point per game, people questioned his health, etc...