[browna]

I agree with a number of opinions here. I think he's a decent,but not near elite coach that impressed Burke in Burke’s first season, when the writing looked on the wall for him.

Brought over by the former GM as a last ditch effort for that person to save his job. But, similar to Keenan, some of the tactics that made him a playoff winning coach (never mind multiple HOF'ers on the winning roster) are a lot less relevant now. I tend to think his hard ass message and style is wearing thin after a couple years on the younger guys, and the x's and o's, as fans, is no more a clear indication (no other way for fans to measure them) than special teams, as they have been league worst most of the year and not great the rest of his time here, and that is telling.

His success last year has bought him time. In my opinion, he has a calender year. If the Flames are in the same spot next year at this time, no matter what roster changes occur or dont occur, he’s gone. Unlike his former GM buddy, he will be working again after,though.

His assistants aren't going anywhere until he does, for better or worse.

Outside chance that Burke moves on from Hartley in this off season, but it will only be if the ultimate replacement is suddenly, and unplanned, available, that Burke wouldve hired eventually for the team to take the next step, regardless of Hartley.

As an aside, I think when Burke thinks that it's time to take that next step with that next coach, and the team is in the hands of Treliving, that coach, and hopefully some more young guys in the roster and things are moving forward positively, Burke moves on too, his job complete. IMO.