I don't see it. Unless there really is some core piece (or near core piece) that is just poor in the room and being a distraction, I don't think the Flames should be looking to add a 1st this year.
Say what you will about Ferland, but I bet he is playing through an injury right now that is bugging him. Even so, this organization has spent a number of assets trying to draft a player like him - 3rd for Kanzig, 2nd for Smith, plus guys like Fischer, Carrol, plus always trying to dig guys up like Stewart, Hathaway and Lomberg, and then signing guys like Glass. Does anyone really believe the Flames are going to give Ferland up for a late 1st in light of all the assets they have expended along the way in trying to find a guy like Ferland?
This team knows it needs some toughness in the lineup, and having toughness that can skate, make hockey plays, and actually look decent playing alongside your top players is valuable. The only way Ferland is being traded is if he thinks he is worth more than what the Flames are willing to re-sign him for. I think expectations with him are a bit much - if he scored as often as people think he should, he would not just be one of the better producing RW'ers in the NHL, he would be a candidate for the Rocket Richard trophy. Ferland provides something that nobody else on the team does - physical play, deterrent, enforcing when needed, and solid play.
None of the guys that I think would fetch a 1st at the time of the year when draft picks are the most valuable would be worth moving, IMO.
This team needs a 1st or a 2nd line RW to work with either the Monahan or Jankowski lines (with Ferland being on the other). It needs a new system that makes more use of the thoroughbreds assembled on the blue line.
The only thing that makes sense is if there really is a locker room issue or a guy legitimately wants out. I think if there is any rumor to this issue, it is just a shot across the bow to the players right now for letting this team down.
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