[Poe969]

I don't think it matters. I think they'll all play top pairing at some point and they'll all play third pairing at some point. The Flames have 5 pretty awesome defenders and depending how camp goes, they may have 6 or more. Having that much talent on the blue line just means you have to go with what's working at the time and lets face it, some guys will get hot and some will get cold. As for who plays with who, it depends on who develops the most chemistry. I loved the chemistry between Russell and Wideman but they will likely have to be broken up, Gio and Brodie were the best pair in the NHL for a while but Gio and Hamilton may be better. Heck, we may see a kid like Morison step in and have great chemistry with Gio.

I think they'll all have the chance to be top pairing at some point and I think they'll all be pushed to work as hard as bottom pairing guys and earn the right to more ice time.