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Old 01-22-2017, 08:16 PM   #26
tvp2003
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Classic_Sniper View Post
It would be rash to just up and trade any of the core players considering how well the team has played for the majority of the season. However, I find it really hard watching the same defensive mistakes from Wideman and Jokipakka. Constant mistakes, constant turnovers and constant coverage issues cost this team on a regular basis. The Flames need an upgrade on these guys quick.

The Oilers have improved their defence by leaps and bounds because they've rid themselves of poor performers and now have a correctly slotted defence core. As a result, now their forwards have easier breakouts and more time in the offensive zone. The Flames really need a similar transformation because the same constant mistake are killing the team.

Brodie and Hamilton have had challenges defensively too, but at least their offensive game has helped the team this season unlike Wideman and Jokipakka who aren't good enough anywhere on the ice. At this point, I'd be ok with Engelland replacing Wideman on the top 4 and playing Kulak with Wideman on the bottom pair. Jokipakka is not an NHL caliber defenseman to me. His hockey IQ is non-existant.
I agree 100%. Wideman and Jokipakka have no future on this team, and it's not like they're contributing much in the present. Wideman isn't even playing on the PP anymore. Forget about trying to maximize a return at the deadline -- send Wideman away for a bag of pucks and let Engelland keep the #4 spot warm until one of Kulak, Wotherspoon, or even one of the Stockton prospects shows they can handle that spot alongside Brodie. It's called investing in your prospects.

Remember when we had Nicklas Grossman in the starting lineup? Yeah, that happened... this year.
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