[transplant99]

Originally Posted by NegativeSpace

I am cautiously optimistic on the Flames chances this year, but I scratch my head to think of deadline deals that really have worked out for the acquiring team. People have brought up Columbus as an example, but I'm not sure that helped their organization long-term.

Buy? If the price makes sense for the player and the fit makes sense in the line up. There is a reason managers talk about mistakes being made on trade deadline day. If there is a Coleman-like player that could be had for the forward ranks (non-stop motor with some goal scoring ability for the 2nd or 3rd line RW), then that seems like a player to acquire, but not at any cost.

Sell? No team in the Flames circumstances is selling a potential playoff run. People are talking about Dallas selling but I can't seem them or even San Jose doing so unless they really start to fall. All a team like Dallas or San Jose need is to gone on a bit of a heater and they are right there.

Tangent: I am occasionally surprised by the number of fans that appear uncomfortable with the team losing control over a player like Johnny or Matthew [I have avoided that thread as a result but am seeing it here]. It is a bargained progression for a team and a player. At some point the players get to choose where they play and for how much. Typically, the player is at the height of their value but that tapers off afterwards - usually in very different degrees.

I trust that conversations have been and continue to be had about what deals will look like and structures. If they lose either player, then that won't be great but at least they can look for free agents (e.g., Brodie out and Tanev in) as I've grown more comfortable with the team's ability to scout professional fits. Naturally, there will not be a Johnny or Matthew on the market but perhaps a player falls out of favour and trades are available. Alternatively, perhaps the Flames' young prospects are relied upon more.

If they cannot replace (even partially) those players, then they have to look towards younger players and may have a few lean years - which warns against rashly giving away draft picks. There are some decent looking players in the system that could make the team next year. Perhaps we are talking about the young forwards for the Flames making an impact like Oliver has this year.

All-in? I don't know what that would mean. I am not in favour of emptying the cupboards for players that may not fit into the room, fit with Sutter, or have little desire or chemistry to play for Calgary. Let's not forget that it took part of last year, all summer, a full training camp and this team still has moments where they forget to play Sutter's system. I am skeptical that anyone can plug and play within this line up.

What should the Flames do? I get that many people point to how the team is playing and saying if we are going to make a splash then this year is the one to do it. I cannot disagree. They have been impressive to date. I also think that it has to depend on the prices, fit, and type of player.

Well i would suggest the Barclay Goodrow and Blake Coleman worked out rather nicely for Tampa since they were acquired.