I think blaming Treliving is a wasted exercise. He attempted to maximize asset value by having a deal in place for Hiller, signing Ramo and then moving Hiller. That deal fell through and he got stuck.
Happens. Good learning lesson for a young GM.
I also think he would have had one of Jones or Talbot if the Hamilton deal didn't fall into his lap.
Bottom line for me is you can't waste years in an organization. The Flames aren't cup contenders but they are a good young team, better than their record shows. You can't waste a year of great young players because of an obvious issue in the lineup, you have to fix it.
The Flames with a goaltender next year are very much in the mix for a playoff spot, might even be comfortably. I'm sure they'll get it sorted out.
If the expansion draft is announced there should be about 8 teams on the clock with a year to maximize value on moving a goaltender. There are not many teams looking to add. The Flames should talk to all 8 and find that good fit of goalie skill and acquisition cost and get it done.
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