Ben Bishop

[thunderblade]

I have read the rules and I realize it says any player under 40 games can be drafted. Ben Bishop was signed as a FA 2 years ago and signed to a contract by me Detroit. Halfway through last season I needed cap room and I foolishly moved him to my MILR and was unable to offer him a extension because he was in the minors and lost him to free agency. So the question that I am asking, is how can he be drafted in the Backyard 2012 entry draft when he has already had a Backyard pro contract. Surely this cannot happen in the real NHL, can it? Once a person signs a pro contract and plays NHL games, can he go back to the amateur draft? Are  we not trying to emulate the pro game as closely as possible. Just asking.

[Drew]

I understand. Really he would not be able to be drafted but since he is under 40 games he is via our rules. I am up for discussion and possible change but for simplicity sake I think under 40 games and a free agent and current year eligible entry draftees is the easiest way to go from a administration stand point. It requires a lot less keeping track instead it is just free agents on fantrax where you have to look.

[thunderblade]

Drew, this is a great league and you do a Great job of being commissioner, administering this league. My opinion is that Bishop can only be acquired through FA which was going to be my plan. We are only 5 picks from the Bishop move and it is not to late to put a hold on the proceedings and fully address this issue.

[Drew]

Well it is a bit late as there is from my knowledge three players that were signed via free agency when the rule was that players with zero games and have been now drafted this year. Watson, Allen, and Bishop were all in this category.

I think the rule will have to stay as is for this draft but we can discuss a further plan of action.

[thunderblade]

OK Buddy, decision has been made and I will live by it. Thank You

[Tony]

I agree with some of what thunderblade is saying and hope we discuss it further after the draft.