Quote:
Originally Posted by Flash Walken
Unfortunately, the time to be supplementing this core with good ELC contracts has passed. We're seeing what you get when you build that way with Andersson and Valimaki and Dube, but unfortunately the Flames spent a ton of those picks for pieces that aren't with the team anymore or who weren't worth it in the first place.
The Flames also don't have the luxury of picking top 15 anymore like they did to establish their existing core group. The Flames will finish likely in the 20s, hopefully the mid or high 20s this year for first rounders. With the team more or less set on contracts, this is hopefully the new normal for the next 3 years.
The Flames don't need help when Gaudreau is 30, they need help now. Top end help that pushes guys down the roster.
Tre has breathed new life into the organization with the Lindholm/Hanifin trade, I think the flames would be nuts not to spend as much as possible early in their contention window rather than throwing picks at a problem 3 or 4 years from now after the core group can't get over the hump.
Good teams trade high picks early in their period of contention, bad teams trade them towards the end for one last kick at the can.
Set the team up for success. Trade a 1st and a prospect and a marginal roster player for Hossa and Dupuis and see if you can't get your young group to the conference or cup final.
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No.
This is year 1 of a window opening. One that is set up to last at least 4.
Guys could easily be drafted this upcoming June and be able to contribute at the end of that 4 year window and that's assuming that Gaudreau isn't re-signed or no one is able to assume Giordano's role....never mind the likelihood of trades in the interim that can supplement those lost for other reasons that can extend that time frame easily.
It's a long game view.
What you are suggesting is they blow their brains out in year 1 when possibly 4 of the 6 Dmen to go into the post season have never played a minute of playoff intensity hockey. That seems asinine to me.
Now if they can leverage their 1st and a non-core guy into some long term stability in net, then sure. I just don't see that kind of deal during the season though, so you wait until the draft and/or free agency to do so, see what you need at the deadline the following season and then take your shot.