Quote:
Originally Posted by Lanny_McDonald
This is a mistake IMO. Markstrom is NOT a long-term player for the team so strike while he's playing well and get the best return you can. If they pass on Holtz and a 1st as suggested, that is a big mistake and overplaying their hand.
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I don't think it is. Markstrom has been great about this for a guy who has made it pretty clear he wants to stay. The fact he even considered giving the Flames the option to possibly trade him is admirable. The market is still going to be there in the offseason, there will be more teams, and more time to get what you want. You are also sending a couple of messages if you are the Flames, you are letting Markstrom know that you value him enough that you are willing to wait on a decision on his future and that you want to give him a chance to drag this team into the playoffs. You are also telling the guys in that room who have battled so hard in the second half to stay in the race that you are going to give them a chance to make the dance. that goes a long way with your vets like Backlund, Huby, and Kadri while giving some valuable pressure and experiences to the young guys.