The Flames will never deliberately tank but I think Conroy did as good of a job stripping away talent on the roster for youth and futures. Moving Markstrom for Bahl and a 1st and Mangiapane for a 2nd and only bringing in guys on 1-2 year deals. They are not spending to the cap now so trying to force their way into the playoffs so they have incredible flexibility moving forward.
End of the day this team will want to absolutely have a team they think can make the playoffs and compete in year one of Scotia Place so I am not convinced we see further attempts to tank. I just think they would be wise to hold off for 2 seasons before they really move some chips in the middle. I still hope they cash their last big chip in Andersson and sell high and deal him this deadline at 50% retained to the highest bidder.
End of the day though if the Flames have a truly shocking season and sit firmly in a playoff spot come the deadline or even New Year I see Conroy using the assets he has in terms of picks, cap space and maybe a prospect who doesn’t fit to land a piece that will make this team better but not just a rental but a long term player that fits the age range.
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