I struggled to pick a core beyond the usual suspects. I picked Poirer over Bouma as I love Bouma but those type of players you need but you don't hesitate if they can get you a better piece. Now if Bouma is a 20 goal scorer then it is a different story too. I like Russell but I can't see him not being replaced in next three years or driven down to being a 3rd pairing dman.
I think of core as being irreplaceable or not tradeable. Typically first line players. Flames happen to have 3 "C" who could be core: Monahan, Bennett, and Backlund. I'd bet on Backlund being a keeper until Bennett is ready for at least 2nd line position.
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