Didn't read your post before my previous reply and I'm kind of baffled with this. Off the top of my head, He made at least one great passing play that Flip couldn't finish last game, the Point comparison being just plain ridiculous, and I love that Point kid so far.
You've been one of the most vocal Drouin apologist because he didn't get a permanent spot, fair chance with good linemates but you seem to deliberately omit that Namesntikov's situation was and still is, even worse than Drouin ever was. I'm not saying they're comparable at all but you'll get my point, I believe.
Namestnikov's a very good puck possession center and his vision, passing abilities are fine for playing such position. When he's on, he also possesses that rare capacity to slow the pace down just for an instant and make things happen. Also, his front net is useful (biggest number of high danger scoring chances on the team last year). The real downside with him is the playoffs though, that's something he'll need to fix rather quickly.