I think the trades and non trades sent a positive message to the league:
- Iginla was given final say in his trade. I believe the team could have asked him to give them teams he would accept a trade to and then just tell him this is where you're going.
- JBo was treated with respect as they kept his streak alive (on paper anyway). I suspect that was something important to him and the team did what they could.
- Kipper by contractual rights shouldn't have needed to be consulted but he was treated like it was his decision and he had rights. Given his rumoured family situation the team again, treated a long time player with respect.
I believe this message to players is you aren't just considered a commodity with The Flames. What is important to you is what's important to us if it helps us all reach our goals. Maybe a 19 year old fresh to the league doesn't care about this but to a guy who's been in the league for even a couple of years, I think this plays a factor. I think it's also something agents, parents, and junior coaches recognize too and they all influence younger players' decisions.
The team treated and does treat the players with the respect they deserve and have earned which should help the team in attracting talent. I'm sure they aren't the only team to treat their players with this much respect and class but I'm happy they are on that list.
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