The Capitals comparison is hilarious, it does the opposite for me, really emphasizing what the Flames are missing, to be a cup contender.
They have a 1 2 punch of Backstrom and Kuznetsov down the middle, both can drive the play, both can dictate pace, both can create space for line mates, both are good skaters, both are great passers, both can finish, both have some sand paper to their game that playoff hockey doesn't make them go into hiding.
Counter that with Monahan and Backlund. Monahan excellent in front of the net and in the face-off circle, but is lacking in virtually every other aspect of the game (speed, raw skill, grit, intensity, vision). Then you have Backlund, serviceable centre playing in 2c role where he is a better fit for 3c.
The Caps literally could beat anybody but the Pens for the longest stretch.. If it weren't for the Pens, OV and crew have more than 1 cup during his time in DC.
Do the Flames need to gut what they have completely? No, the Flames have some building blocks. Its unfortunate the centres they've drafted high haven't been these game changing, control play type players (Bennett/Monahan). It just reinforces how important it is to build from the middle out, the centre ice position dictates so much of what goes on out there.
The Flames need to re-evaluate that position this summer and see if anything can be done, whether thats moving Monahan or exploring all options to see if they can bring in somebody who can manage the game more effectively in crunch time, while dropping Monahan to 2c.
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