Quote:
Originally Posted by Jiri Hrdina
I think it's an interesting "What If" question to consider if the Flames hadn't traded Sam.
I start with the premise that he would have continued to play better under Sutter but it is unlikely he would have taken a massive step that we've seen in Florida so far.
So then the question is...do the Flames leave him unprotected. I think that answer is Yes.
Then the question is...does Seattle take him or Gio? On one hand, they seemed to focus on building their blueline and Gio is a big part of that. On the other hand their forward group is very weak including at Centre.
So I think it's 50/50 but for the sake of the thought exercise, let's say they take Sam.
So at the end of all that where does that leave the Flames
- Still without Sam
- They wouldn't have the assets (2nd and Emil) gained from the Sam trade
- On the other hand they would have Gio still
- They would also have potential assets gained from flipping him at this deadline (probably less than 50% chance that would have happened though)
- They likely do not trade for and sign Zadarov. Not sure if the Gudbransson signing is as impacted. Perhaps.
Just fun to play out how it would have impacted other decisions.
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The Flames should've traded Bennett years ago before they tanked his value by playing him in a bottom six winger role.