Why is the media and the organization dangling that carrot of "vying for the post-season." We've been through this same situation for years, and went through it during the late 90's. It always results in a "push" that comes up short of that last spot, but too far back in the draft order to qualify for a plumb prospect in the draft lottery.
Over the last several years, with the exception of the '04 run, they either don't make it at all or lose in the first round. Face facts now. This team is not built to do damage, even if they just squeak into The Show. Would you really want to face the possibility of getting swept by the Blackhawks, just to host a couple of home playoff games?
Those indications from Iginla's agent look like practical terms. He's experienced everything else, but the ultimate. Who could blame him for wanting to get out of this type of environment? He was there when Fleury went through the same thing. Not sure how many top contenders have the cap space & assets, but it's past time to stop pretending that the Flames are "a center away" from taking it to the next level.
|