The regular season really doesn't mean that much to me, more so than their performance in the playoffs, because that's when you need your roster delivering. And the past three times in the playoffs, they've gotten tuned when eliminated. 2015 is forgivable because they weren't even expected to make playoffs, advanced, and it was their first time. But since then, 2017 and this year has been a disaster. You have to look at the core, and see which players are made for the playoffs, and who's not.
Gaudreau can't do it on his own, and be an impact player like MacKinnon or Mathews can be. He needs support from another player that's up to his level. If that can't be brought in, then you gotta trade him since the Flames aren't going to elevate with him being the only forward superstar. He can't handle the physical empowerment the opposing team impose on him, and it'll be pointless trying to tread water here.
There's gotta be some movements with the roster to bring in more top in forward support. Neal not panning out really ####ed everything over. Can't be going after older UFA's anymore. Treliving is pretty good at trading, so he's gotta pull another rabbit or two out of the hat to improve this team to be playoff ready.
Everyone aside from a few D-prospects should be up for grabs. Even Gio. He's getting up their in age, and the Flames defensive depth can make it manageable giving him away to bring in a crucial piece.
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