Well it was hard to not be a call-up homer last year given the inadequacy of the Flames' bottom six, which was a big reason why they missed the playoffs. I had advocated for changes to the forward lineup this year too and they addressed that via trade.
Gudbranson has regressed from a good #5 to a fine 6/7 over the course of the season. He's fine but he's not indispensable and he's certainly not someone who I would omit from consideration if there are potential spots on the defensive lineup up for grabs. He's certainly been worse than Oliver.
Zadorov has really struggled lately but was much better than Gudbranson at his best. I would only take him out right now to give him some rest down the stretch.
Mackey has earned a shot, he's been their best defensive prospect for the last two years and was probably a top-3 defender in the A this year. It's not like they're pulling a guy out of junior, he's 25 and he's already here and playing very well.
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