I think Stajan will be traded anywhere from next year through to the 4th year at the deadline.
Flames just re-signed a guy who has been decent as a center in helping to shoulder the load, and to add veteran presence.
If any 3-4 centers surpass Stajan between now and then, Stajan gets traded. Term and cap hit are fine, front-loaded deal makes it even more flexible. Calgary will probably draft another center or two in the next couple of drafts. Backlund, Colborne, Monahan, Granlund, Arnold, Jankowski + possible 2014 pick + possible 2015 pick + possible trade... 3 or 4 of these surpass Stajan, Stajan gets moved.
No problem with the term. Gives the Flames flexibility and insurance, provides an easy-to-trade contract unless Stajan suddenly drops off considerably for some reason.
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