[stemit14]

The more I think about it, the more I think Lindholm ends up with Colorado. I think he fits what they need and their cap dump for him would likely be Ryan Johansen… that allows Calgary to gain a bit of value by taking back a bad contract but it’s also a center for a center trade. Obviously Lindholm’s a much better player than Johansen but it might be a slight attempt for Conroy to hedge his bets on the season. He could hope that Johansen fits in well with Huberdeau and Sharongovich while gaining future assets. Gives the flames a slight chance to stay in the race for a playoff spot. I know most of us are not expecting them to make it and it will only hurt their draft position but Conroy’s comments the other day make me think he might not completely give up on the season.

If the flames end up retaining 50% on Lindholm and taking back Johansen’s contract, I think they should at least get a 1st round pick + 2nd round pick + B-level prospect. Who knows… if the flames find themselves in the same position next season, they might be able to get a bit of a return for Johansen at next year’s deadline if he produces with top minutes on the flames next year.