I don't think they are better, I think they are different. Strength has been moved around the lineup. I like the depth down the middle. Backlund has finally been moved to a spot where he should have been playing all these years. We are stacked on the blueline, probably too stacked to be honest. The strength has shifted from the wings to the middle. The (minor) problem there is none of our centers are elite like our wingers were. The depth down the middle is arguably the best in the league, but we need to see how that production from the wings s going to be recouped.
As it is, I think the Flames are about the same as the team from last season. The Flames could be way better than last season if they can find another winger that can be a scoring threat. Doesn't have to be a 40+ goal scorer, but pop 25-30 and the team will be better. I think this is doable if Treliving can find a buyer for one of his blueliners.
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