Calgarypuck Forums - The Unofficial Calgary Flames Fan Community - View Single Post - How far off are the Calgary Flames from cup contending status?

Calgary4LIfe · 08-08-2016, 12:36 AM

2 years in my estimation.

This year they are on the bubble for the playoffs.

Next year I expect them to be 'comfortably' in the playoffs.

Following year I expect a division title (or 2nd) and be considered a real threat.

If Elliott and Johnson carry on exactly like they were last year, this team is a year ahead. If Bennett and Tkachuk form a reliable scoring pair (which is too much to ask of them this season) then it is another step up.

I really think the only things the Flames are waiting on is to see how Goaltending plays out this year (should be good, but you still have to do it) and how Bennett and Tkachuk develop and help relieve the pressure from Gaudreau and Monahan.

Backlund and Frolik are great together, and for the last couple of seasons anyone that you put with Backlund seems to have a career year, so the third line is essentially set in my mind.

Gaudreau and Monahan put up enough points, but need another scoring threat on another line to help out the coach with line matching on the road, as well as a RW that can help them dig out pucks in the corner and be a net-front presence.

Tkachuk and Bennett - they just need some time to develop, that's all. Almost doesn't matter who you end up throwing out with them.

There are tonnes of options for the 4th line. This is where I want to see Bouma stapled to. Throw in a guy like Hathaway there to stir things up and add some speed and scoring ability. Stajan is a guy that I still don't think fits that 4th line, but I also expect him to be gone after his contract expires.

Defence is strong, and you have guys that are now getting NHL time and not looking bad - Kulak and Wotherspoon - and there is tonnes of depth coming up the pipe as well, but is good enough today to compete with any team in the NHL - Defence is 'ready' now.

I would say 2 years is the window. How close they are to actual contenders is up to how well Bennett and Tkachuk develop, how many defencemen step up and give good minutes, and how well Treliving adds complimentary pieces to surround the talent as others move on.

08-08-2016, 12:36 AM	#20
Calgary4LIfe Franchise Player Join Date: Jun 2010 Exp:	2 years in my estimation. This year they are on the bubble for the playoffs. Next year I expect them to be 'comfortably' in the playoffs. Following year I expect a division title (or 2nd) and be considered a real threat. If Elliott and Johnson carry on exactly like they were last year, this team is a year ahead. If Bennett and Tkachuk form a reliable scoring pair (which is too much to ask of them this season) then it is another step up. I really think the only things the Flames are waiting on is to see how Goaltending plays out this year (should be good, but you still have to do it) and how Bennett and Tkachuk develop and help relieve the pressure from Gaudreau and Monahan. Backlund and Frolik are great together, and for the last couple of seasons anyone that you put with Backlund seems to have a career year, so the third line is essentially set in my mind. Gaudreau and Monahan put up enough points, but need another scoring threat on another line to help out the coach with line matching on the road, as well as a RW that can help them dig out pucks in the corner and be a net-front presence. Tkachuk and Bennett - they just need some time to develop, that's all. Almost doesn't matter who you end up throwing out with them. There are tonnes of options for the 4th line. This is where I want to see Bouma stapled to. Throw in a guy like Hathaway there to stir things up and add some speed and scoring ability. Stajan is a guy that I still don't think fits that 4th line, but I also expect him to be gone after his contract expires. Defence is strong, and you have guys that are now getting NHL time and not looking bad - Kulak and Wotherspoon - and there is tonnes of depth coming up the pipe as well, but is good enough today to compete with any team in the NHL - Defence is 'ready' now. I would say 2 years is the window. How close they are to actual contenders is up to how well Bennett and Tkachuk develop, how many defencemen step up and give good minutes, and how well Treliving adds complimentary pieces to surround the talent as others move on.