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| In response to all the unsubstantiated speculation that Jason Smith is going on LTIR, being traded or forced to retire. I wanted to write an appreciation thread for one of the greatest warriors in today’s game. | |
| I am a huge fan of Smith and a fan of the type of player he is (don’t kid yourself there aren't many). He is one of the few players who understand what sacrifice means. He is consistently in the top of the league in blocked shots. He is a huge hitter who picks his spots well. Positionally, he is impeccable and stands up for his teammates fiercely. He is certainly one of the hardest players to play against in today’s NHL, ask Sidney Crosby. Jason is one of 3 active players to captain two teams (Chris Pronger and Chris Drury are the others. Add Peca if he finds a home.) If we didn’t have Alfie here in Ottawa Smith would be a leading candidate to captain his third team. |  |
| The other reason to write this is to counter some of the uninformed opinions I have read in forums around the game. Two things in particular… First there is a perception that Jason is old. (Little known fact: Alfie is older) Surely he is not in his prime years but he is 35. I would suggest that barring injury he has 3 good years left at perhaps a declining role but remaining important to the club. There is some suggestion that his style of play would accelerate his aging, I am not sure that is entirely true. He has started to pick his spots better in terms of making the hit. Not because of a lack of desire but due to his commitment to positioning. Chelios played a prominent role well into his forties while playing as tough *cough* dirty as anyone. Second there is a perception that Jason is slow. Well I am not sure when people thought Jason was fast? He has never been noted for his speed. His is noted for his positional play (not to belabor the point). I can’t recall Jason being out of position more than a handful of times with the Sens this year. His game is not speed, it’s smarts and toughness. That hasn’t been dulled in his ancient 35 year old body. His is certainly not a liability in terms of speed. As a defensive player he has ample speed to get in position. He doesn’t have enough to break through the forecheck and rush it up the ice single handedly, that is not what he is here for. For those who make assumptions about Jason disappearing from the radar when making their ‘lineups’ for next year… for those who suggest we buy him out.. for those who suggest we force him to retire… and for those who think we try to throw him away in a deal… I say this When we start playing games that mean something, you will be begging to have a guy like Gator in the lineup. Hopefully we will just be thanking our lucky stars that we do. Classy tribute from the Oilers organization (*hint Dany hint*)... | |
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