[Saqe]

Originally Posted by gvitaly

I think that one of Norris(24) and Pinto(22), Greig(20) might become available in Ottawa if they stumble out of the gate again.

Dallas also has an interesting situation with Stankoven(20), Johnston(20), and Hintz(26), but I don't see any of them becoming available before 2026.

A guy like Kotkaniemi(22) might become available, based on some talks I had with Carolina fans he's pretty good defensively, but the offense just isn't there. That said, the 4.8M price tag until 2030 might discourage one from taking a chance on a 30P center.

Right now, I could see the Flames go after Duchene, Monahan, or Stephenson as a stopgap center for the next 3–5 seasons. However, I hope they promote one of Sharangovich, Zary, and Pospisil to play center full-time.

Kotkaniemi is turning 24 in the summer. I really like the player, he plays hard and the "right way" but that contract may be too big of a risk at this point to take on. Not the AAV but the lenght.