As many people are saying above. These players want a trade. Fine and dandy. But the team should do what’s best for them. If they are all dead set on screwing the Flames there’s nothing that says the Flames have to do what’s best for them.
If it’s true that they are getting crap offers for them right now I’d wait it out and start the season with them. If things go well with the new coach and a tweaked lineup maybe they change their minds. Backlund wants to win a cup. Maybe he sees the opportunity here as an example. If it goes like crap again then you have 6 months to get the best deal you can for whomever still wants out. Other teams will get more desperate closer to the trade deadline. Start a bidding war. Teams are going to want guys like Backlund, Lindholm and Hanifin for a playoff run. By that time you can also evaluate your younger players on the big club and figure out whether they fit or not and what the Flames actually need.
Worst case is they get injured, you make the playoffs and they still want out or you’re getting the same crap bids at the deadline. But I guess if you want to maximize their value you have to gamble a bit. Unless someone comes to the table in the offseason with something you can’t refuse. I think even though the situation doesn’t look optimal, conroy can still be in the driver’s seat. Time is on his side right now.
It’ll be interesting to see how it all plays out. Hopefully Conroy can turn a crap sandwich into a chocolate cake.
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