Very pleased with the deal. I thought Stone was a legitimate target and if the Flames made a move on the blue line it was he or Kulikov they were after. This deal makes sense for a lot of reasons. IIRC I read that Treliving went after Stone 2 years ago and dangled Baertschi as the return but Maloney didn't bite and we moved onto the Vancouver deal.
My concern with a Stone trade was the price. He is not Shattenkirk but is probably in the next tier of available D. He is still only 26, has size, and shoots right. He is having a poor season but still a 3rd rounder is a price you pay all day considering the Flames were desperate to upgrade the position. Here is hoping playing on a team in the race and playing with a partner like Brodie helps Stoner have success here. If it works out you sign him and hope you don't lose him to Vegas but this is not a protectable player. Again at the price of a third there is no risk and you can sign him after the expansion draft as he is a pending UFA.
Once again the Flames make a trade under Treliving that leaves the fans feeling pleased. Personally I know a few out there that want the Flames to sell but for me I am happy they are going for it. This team needs playoff experience with their core and they are close. Flames appear to be buyers but it wouldn't shock me to see them sell off an asset or 2 before the 1st. Maybe they are still in on Kulikov and will move the likes of Engellend?
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