[home_sweet_dome]

While we're on the topic of trading Gaudreau, if I'm the Flames management I would be seriously considering that this offseason.

Gaudreau's career is eerily resembling Phaneuf's to a tee so far:

-both dominated in their respective league's after being drafted by the Flames including dominating performances at the WJ's
-2 of the (deservedly so) biggest hyped prospects in Flames history
-both spectacular in their rookie years and nominated for the Calder
-continued great play in the first few years leading to almost identical 6 year contract extensions and virtually everyone thinking they will be Flames franchise players for a long time going forward
-decline in play the 1st year after the contract extension with both visible differences on the ice (less speed for Johnny) and whispers of off-ice issues (Johnny having a lot more in common with Johnny Football than just the name)

While it's easy to say this is just an off year for Johnny and the blame could be partly on GG2.0 and the contract burden, i believe there is a very real chance he continues to drop off/flatten out like Dion and still be a decent player but not the superstar we thought/hoped he'd be.

This summer the market would still be very high for Johnny, especially for an eastern American team where he would also help sell a lot of tickets and the Flames would be wise to at least explore it as if he doesn't bounce back next year his trade value wouldn't be nearly as high.

For example if a team like Philly (Provorov/Konecny) or the Islanders (signed Tavares) was willing to overpay the Flames should be all over it.