I'm personally not all that high on the Flames defensive prospects making any immediate NHL inroads so I lean to resigning him but that could change based on the following factors;
- Draft. Flames draft Ekblad then probably let him go to highest bidder in free agency. Flames don't draft Ekblad then try and keep him in the fold on a fair contract.
- Free Agency. If they bring in one of the higher profile free agents then the writing is probably on the wall. If the Flames can't attract any of the better UFA defensemen then maybe best to stick wit the devil you know.
- Wideman situation. If they can trade him in the offseason then keep Butler regardless of other moves just to keep some veteran depth and continuity. If he isn't moved then the team can afford to possibly let him go if his asking price becomes unreasonable.