The Hemsky Dilemma

To be or not to be, that is the question regarding Oiler favourite Ales Hemsky.

These next few days will be very interesting to say the least. Once again Oiler fans find themselves torn between their love and what is the best interest of the team. When I use to the word team I refer to the players themselves. How do the players feel about Ales? The veterans who have played with him for a number of years. The bloomers who have know him a little and the rookies who have yet to see the real Hemsky.

It is common knowledge that Hemsky is not a vocal leader in the dressing room. It's safe to say his demeanour would simply fade into his stall. Some would argue that his leadership is on the ice. During games that maybe, but at practice, it's safe to say Hemsky is the last one on and first one off. And over the last few years it is hard to lead from the pressbox.

Ales certainly has the skills to put up big numbers for years to come. At 28 he is entering his prime. As good as Hall, Eberle and Nugent-Hopkins are, a healthy Hemsky could easily lead the team on the scoreboard for another year or two. The question is? Is that a good thing?

I will never say that Hemsky is not a team player but he sure isn't in the same stratosphere of a Messier. Ales  is a Yes or No team player. A lost ship with no port to call it's own. A 5 Million dollar ship that is lost at sea.

5 Million is the asking price? Yes? And for how long?

One thing we can all agree on we're not going to get fair value for Hemsky. Whether we trade him or sign him. But you never do when dealing with up and coming free agents. Trade Ales and the team will be better off. Short term and in the long run.

History has shown for the most part that teams who are lead with their best players, are the teams to beat. 

Yes or No?