Yup this is Phillips' third pro season, which makes him eligible. And Ruzicka is exempt.
Am I crazy for thinking the Flames could probably expose Backlund and not risk him being picked? I think Seattle probably would have very little interest in taking that contract.
If the Flames expose Backlund and get Lucic to waive, I seriously wonder if they use the seventh slot on Phillips.
Here are their other options (assuming 13, 19, 23, 28, 29, and 88 are protected):
Ryan (UFA), Leivo (UFA), Froese, Robinson (UFA), Kirkland, Rinaldo (UFA), Ritchie (UFA), Gawdin, Simon, Nordstrom (RFA)
I 100% protect Phillips over all those guys. I think Backlund's contract might protect itself... so why bother protecting it?
__________________
Host of the FlamesNation Warmies and Afterburner shows.
2026 World Junior Pool Champion
|