Last year, most were very pleased with the Flames and if anything they overachieved, yet still finished 27th. Most teams who over-achieve eventually fall back to earth. If the Flames don't over-achieve, it would make sense that they would finish lower than 27th and have a shot at McDavid.
Gio had by far his best season. If he falls back to a more average career production this coming season, we lose more games.
Great rookies like Monahan often have sophomore jinxes in their follow up seasons.
We had several others who took significant steps forward last season, and if half of them step back, we will be a worse team.
UFAs Cammarelli and Butler are likely gone. Who replaces their production?
I am not hoping the Flames tank, but it is not unreasonable to suggest that they could be a worse team next year.
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