A TSN feature on Canadian teams heading into the draft makes note that the perception that the Flames cupboard is bare is not accurate
http://www.tsn.ca/draftcentre/feature/?id=9691
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It's easy to look at the Calgary Flames' depth chart and make the quick assessment that the cupboard is bare when it comes to prospects. Not quite - they just aren't that well known right now.
The team took a bit of a hit when blue chip defenceman Tim Erixon didn't come to terms with them on a contract and was traded to the New York Rangers. But it's not as 'doom and gloom' as many say.
Leading the pack is Sven Baertschi, who TSN Scout Craig Button believes could end up being one the five best players to come out of the class of 2011. The dynamic winger brought a big 'wow' factor in a very brief stint with the Flames this past season and it could be a taste of the things to come.
Markus Granlund, drafted in the second round by the Flames last year, has the potential to be a great player. The same can be said for Max Reinhart, who's expected to take the next step after his last season with the Kootenay Ice. The older brother of 2012 draft prospect Griffin Reinhart is a big, strong competitive centre who will one day bolster the third line. The same can be said for Michael Ferland, who spent the last three seasons with the Brandon Wheat Kings, and Laurent Brossoit led the WHL's Edmonton Oil Kings to the Memorial Cup Final.
So the depth is there for GM Jay Feaster and the Flames and it should only get that much better when the team steps up to the podium for the 14th pick.
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