Quote:
Originally Posted by Caged Great
Nope, the skill levels will be a problem this year. Basically we come in with a slight alteration between Colborne and Brouwer, although their point totals will be the roughly the same over the course of a season.
So we have lost Hudler and replaced him with... Chaisson? Shinkaruk? Ferland? Someone that clearly isn't viable on a decent/good team to be on the first line regardless. Add in that they have replaced Russell with Jokipakka, who is more of a 6/7 guy than a #4 and have no other options.
The team in front of the goalie is worse. Significantly so. There is nothing that can be done about it until the 15 million dollars due to bottom end players are removed. Only 3 or so of that will be spent on Goalie raises and Bennett's new contract (his cap hit is already over 3 million, won't get 6 until he unleashes the beast).
Next year, the Flames will properly be able to address the lineup. Now we are stuck. The only saving grace is that players will get an opportunity in positions they would otherwise not receive shots in and see if they can rise to the occasion. I'm thinking at this point next year that TJ Oshie may be in a Flaming "C" because he's the only quality RW under the age of 30 available and it's doubtful that the Caps will be able to afford to keep him.
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Not sure I understand how the team up front of the goalies are worse.....
Defense is solid, if they stay healthy they will be a strength of team.
Biggest areas of concern last season was the goal-tending and lack of experience within the team.
Bennett has one more year of experience this alone is an upgrade
Brouwer is an upgrade over Hudler or Colborne, Brouwer adds grit, experience, defense and leadership.
Offense won't be an issue assuming the Flames sign Gaudreau.