I always find that comment to be an interesting one. Its really comes down to beauty is in the eye of the beholder, does it not? Yeah, Bitetto and Rawlings have both taken steps back since the team went on its winning run in November/December, and maybe the reason why we are not winning anymore is the play of those two.
That being said, in Bitetto's case, it might be Nashville looks at NU and does not feel that he can accomplish more here and that the coaching he is receiving is no longer top flight, and they want to get him in the minors ASAP.
For Rawlings, some team might feel the same thing. That their goalie coaches can do better work with him and that he is worth the investment now. Because lets be honest about Rawlings. The kid has improved from where he was as a freshmen, to where he is today. Its a Fact. If anybody cannot see that, they are blind. Side to side, stuff behind the net, even following the puck, 100% better. There have been some stupid stuff of late, nobody is denying that, but he is better which proves he takes to coaching. Every team out there knows it. It will be up to some team, which is probably weak in goal tending depth that may be willing to take a gamble on him for relatively short money. The question will be does Rawlings want the money and a chance to go pro, or does he want to finish his career for a fan base that really dislikes him?
One point though, does not the NHL collective bargining agreement come due after this summer? IF the players go on strike and the NHL shuts down, that may keep alot of college guys from jumping since they will have less of a chance to jump the AHL, will probably have to go to lower leagues as guys who would be fringe NHL and guys graduating from Major Junior and college take up those slots.
