The Flames have loads of CAP space today, but Richards' contract expires in 2020.
By then, the Flames will have had to lock in Monahan, Gaudreau, Bennett, Poirier, and more.
I remember watching Richards on the Flyers, in the Olympics, and during the Kings' cup runs. He was an absolute beast. But being a beast could be his detriment. He's only 5'11, 199. That's small for his style of play. His body is probably not the same as it was 4-5 years ago.
It's tempting to try to resurrect the old Mike Richards, but it's smart to let him pass.
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