I don't care whether the proposal/rumour is fair or not. I simply think the assets being talked about could be spent far more wisely.
Hudler has another year on his contract after this one. He should make for a very nice deadline trade either this year or next. At $4m, with the cap now at $70m and rising, his salary looks pretty attractive. He should return a 1st (or 2nd at worst), or a nice prospect.
Wideman has 2 more years after this one. His value will be higher next year, or the Flames could retain salary, making him a decent asset, probably returning a late 2nd or a 3rd.
Backlund + a 2nd could get us a very good asset. I would think a solid young D or a pretty high 1st round pick (maybe 6 to 10 range?).
Those returns, in the aggregate, would serve the Flames far better. Plus, they can take their time and allow the kids to continue to develop before these players are moved.
Acquiring Spezza solves none of the problems that the Flames currently face. He doesn't fit the culture that we are trying to create, IMO. And the assets are far better spent elsewhere.
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