[Oil Stain]

Originally Posted by Cali Flames Fan

You really are missing the point here. Just because they don't all turn into impact NHL players, they are assets that can be used to acquire the pieces you need to fill out a roster.

Just for example: 20th ranked Reto Berra was traded to the Colorado Avalanche for a 2nd round pick in 2014. The Flames used that pick to acquire Hunter Smith, and while he isn't assuredly going to be an NHL player, he's got a decent shot at becoming a significant depth piece on a roster.

Knight turned into Drew Shore, who looks like he can also fill a depth position in the lineup, although in what capacity is yet to be determined. Horak and Brossoit were used as pieces in the Smid trade, and while he might not play again, he was a key contributor in the season he was traded in providing stability to the defense. Baertschi turned into a 2nd round pick that got us Rasmus Andersson, who looks to be a nice asset. Reinhart, Cundari, Ramage, and Breen were all passed on the depth chart by BETTER prospects, a direct result of good drafting, making them expendable. Even so, Reinhart (a declining 3rd round pick) got us a 4th round pick in return, and so the cycle continues until you hit on a winning prospect.

These scenarios keep a franchise flush with possible players to add to the lineup, rather than perpetually trying to sign players like Boyd Gordon and Lauri Korpikoski to fill out a lineup.

But don't worry, I'll be happy if the Oilers never learn these lessons and remain stuck in mediocrity despite having a few star players.

Edit: LOL, New Era had pretty much the same thoughts as I did.

It's cute that you think the Flames are the only team that trades prospects that aren't working out for picks or other players.