The Flames are not just a rebuilding team, they are (thus far) a bubble-playoff team that has a shot at making the playoffs, and are playing meaningful games. Adding those two components together clouds the issue a little.
Option one - Send Ortio down today: I don't like this choice. Ortio has two very solid appearances - including a rare win (and shutout) against a team the Flames have had loads of trouble with. The Flames are pushing the 'always earned, never given' angle, and if they want to be honest with that motto, they simply can not send Ortio down today.
Option three - Send Ortio down at the All-Star break: Not a terrible idea either. From a development perspective, I think it may help Ortio in the long run by playing a little while longer this season before getting sent down again. Who knows, however? He may just be on his winning streak right up until the All-Star break.
Option 4 - Trade a goalie and keep Ortio for the year: I think at any point this season, it was a realistic option. I do think Ortio is Calgary's best shot at a bona fide starting goalie - I do think he is Calgary's goalie of the future, though Gillies and MacDonald are nice to have as well. I just don't think the Flames should make room for Ortio with a small sample size here, or worse yet - not maximize assets. Wait it out a little bit until there are a couple more injuries and suddenly the goalie market is hot. Teams will come calling for Hiller I would say - NHL experienced, but another year left on the deal. Tough to move him I think. Ramo is easier, but I am not so sure teams will be after him to replace their starter.
Option 2 sounds like the most reasonable and 'patient' to me, and I think during a rebuild, patience is virtue. Let Ortio start every game (other than a back to back of course) until he 'loses' the net, then send him down. Adirondack needs him as well. Next year, make him the backup who plays 30 or maybe even 40 games, splitting duties with whomever is left next season.
I think a good poll at this point would also be "Which goalie out of Ramo and Hiller should the Flames keep for next season?" I bet this would make for an interesting discussion.
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