[blender]

I've said it before, but it bears repeating. Monahan is not the problem. Flames need to upgrade the center position, not dismantle it. Adding a top line center and slotting Monahan in at 2 makes the Flames very deep down the middle. I'd also argue that because Monahan would be one of the best 2nd line centers in the league, you wouldn't necessarily need an elite 1st line center. Someone like William Karlsson for example. Not that he's available, but I can't help but think a player like that could be out there somewhere.

And Backlund. What is it with fans that can't appreciate how good this guy is. If you want to tank for picks get rid of him because Flames are a lottery ream with him off the roster. He was our best skater the 2nd half of the season and playoffs and it isn't close. Not saying he will carry us to the promised land on his own, but every player that plays with him improves. In fact for all of the hype around Tkachuk I don't remember him doing anything useful when he wasn't on Backlund's wing.