The only way that the Flames will trade Kipper away is if they go into a rebuild mode. Kipper deserves a chance just as much as Iggy, IMO, from a 'thank you' standpoint from this organization to Iggy and Kipper, as well as from a rebuilding standpoint as Kipper would definitely garner a decent package, and his departure of course enhances the pick that year that Irving moves up. I am also HOPEFUL that Karlsson gets better, and allows Irving to step in as a backup or as part of a Tandem. I like Karlsson's attitude, and with the exception of that Colorado game, he is stable back there. Just really needs to work on his composure in shootouts/penalty shots (amongst other things, of course).
With that being said, IF the Flames go through a rebuilding mode, you often do not want to expose your 'future star' goalie to it, as it can play with their confidence issues too much. However, since Irving is doing exceptional this year, on the youngest team in the NHL (and therefore, the more mistake-prone team - sheer guess at this point though), then it is nice to see how he has already had a confidence issue, and managed go get past it admirably.
However, I think he could use another solid season in the minors to help with his all-round game. He is definitely starting to look like a possibility, and that is nice. Last year most of us were wondering if the Flames should even retain him, and give someone else the opportunity.
All in all, it really looks like the Flames are having some good prospects in the system now. Erixon, Brodie, Irving, Nemisz, Wahl, Pelech, Seabrook, Howse, Ramage, Reinhart looking like they will at least be very good support players, if not better - Negrin if he manages to get past his bad luck with injuries (and Pelech somewhat as well). Backlund on the Flames already.
If the Flames do rebuild, I would say we are more than halfway there in terms of young prospects with good upsides. Anything can happen in the NHL, and chances are at least a few of these names won't go far, but perhaps a few will even exceed expectations as well. I am getting more and more optimistic about our prospect pool every week, and it is really nice to see Abbotsford being able to work through adversity and challenge for the division lead. A winning mentality on the farm can help transition a winning mentality on the parent club.
I really do not want to turn this into a Sutter thread at all, but this is the reason why I am still 'pro' Sutter. It SEEMS like he is finally getting on the right track with his drafting, and I would THINK that the future of the Flames will be a successful one. Night and day between the last 3 drafts, compared to the last 15+ drafts, I would say. Nothing outside of Backlund is 'proven' yet, but even naysayers can at least see that it SEEMS to be much better, and thanks to him and KK, we have the Heat that we can take our time developing our strong prospect group now.
How is MacMillan (Sp?) doing? I haven't heard much about him. Was hoping this move would get his career back on track.
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