What a great pickup. Last year was a complete aberration for Hamonic and I expect he will rebound in a big way. Between injuries and all the stuff in his personal life, it's almost surprising he didn't completely collapse. Impressive man.
The price is a lot, but the Flames' biggest hole, by far, was a #4 defenceman. With Hamonic, their #4 defenceman is like having a #3 on 25 teams in the league.
After having to watch Wideman, Engelland, Russel, and Stone limp around the ice the last year (poor, poor TJ Brodie), I can't wait to have a competent defenceman who can actually make a decent break out pass or escape pressure on his own. Those four were horrific in the #4 role.
The Flames contender window is open now. Exciting times as a Flames fan.
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"I think the eye test is still good, but analytics can sure give you confirmation: what you see...is that what you really believe?"
Scotty Bowman, 0 NHL games played
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