Quote:
Originally Posted by 1qqaaz
This is why I think the Flames have to take a good hard look at trading Tkachuk right now.
Tkachuk signed himself into being a 25 year old UFA, was told to "calm down", complained about his minutes, and wants to play in St. Louis. He has a lot of trade value and could likely bring back a better player than anyone else on the team (Lindholm probably should be worth more, but he would never be traded).
Gaudreau on the other hand, has been with the team since 2011 and has unequivocally stated that he wants to sign long term. He's durable and I doubt he'll regress any time soon.
It would be silly to pay two left wingers 17+ million when there are so many other holes in the lineup.
Both of them don't have much term. So to maximize value, you'll have to make the trade sooner rather than later.
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My concern with Tkachuk is if we see more of the same next season where he appears disconnected, we could be in the same boat missing the playoffs. Some have suggested players have off seasons, but this seemed different. It wasn't until after we missed the playoffs and Tkachuk was on the top line that we saw a little closer to the old Tkachuk.
Tkachuk can be a very good player, but without him playing his best it is an uphill battle for the Flames. If he stays it has to be because Tkachuk wants to be here and wants to be a big part of the team. It is on the Flames organization to find out what went wrong and fix it; Otherwise I think a trade while his value is high would be prudent.