For me, ST was mostly about the forum. I always saw the model where front page articles drove discussion and discussion engaged more people. I saw ST as a place one comes for advice, tips, opinions. In the years past, having great coaches, athletes and domain experts contributing made ST a credible resource (with it’s personality caveats of course).
I really don’t believe the editorial staff sees the forum as the prime asset. Actions speak louder than words.
I am not sure how building walls between the forum and other areas of the site drives this forward, but I very much respect it’s the investors (those known publically and those more private) who get to decide.
If I saw one little glimmer that the editorial staff was asking it’s readership and listening, I’d have confidence this could grow. The word “community” is thrown around, I struggle to see how a “community” is being built here.
But the great thing about ST, is we have always been able to debate things.