Quote:
Originally Posted by JD
Contender - The core of the roster is mid to late in their prime, draft picks are used as trade bait, especially at the deadline. Expectations are Cup or bust. Teams like Chicago, LA, Pittsburgh are here. This is where the Flames were trying to be 2007 to 2012, but just couldn't get over the hump. This is the dangerous phase where if the GM is reckless with draft picks and the roster is not supplemented by youth over time, you will find your team in the next phase....
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This is what sets organizations apart. Chicago has managed to win while developing their own talent and managing non core players so well. Granted when you draft a Toews at four and Win the draft lottery to nab Kane, you have the hockey God's on your side setting you up - but they look to remain a perennial contender. This is what the Flames must aspire to. For so many years they gave away so many picks chasing the dream that the prospect pool was bankrupt. This must never happen again