Really like the move, Smid is one of only a few Oilers that I actually like. He's not known for his offensive prowess obviously, but at least is capable of being a top four defender in today's game. Flames really gave up nothing, since Horak won't amount to much, and obviously Gillies is ahead of Brossoit in the order (as is Ortio I imagine). Sure Brossoit put up good numbers on a great Oil Kings team, but look what happened when he tried to suit up during the World Juniors and the Memorial Cup against stiffer opposition. For goaltenders it's hard to tell what to expect from them during their careers, but I don't see Brossoit amounting to a whole lot.
Not every move made during a rebuild has to be for picks, prospects, or young guys. Smid is a guy who could easily be on the Flames for years to come, well past the rebuild. Or he could be dealt for picks/prospects, as his cap hit is quite reasonable for a top four defender.
I honestly think this is one of Feaster's best moves yet, and glad he was willing to make a deal with the desperate Oilers who needed the capspace. It's about time the Flames took advantage of this because if our current situation. Got something pretty decent for essentially nothing, what's wrong with that?
Oh and this guy will actually stand up to other players without being almost useless (ala Jackman, McGratton, and O'Brien).
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