Couple things I’m hoping for in the next 2 weeks:
1. Andersson trade. If it’s before/at the draft, I’ll be hoping for it somehow to lead (either directly or indirectly) to the flames getting a pick in the top 10 of this draft so they can get one of the top centers. If it’s after the draft, my hope is that it includes a 1st round pick in 2026 and a really good center prospect (along the return of what Colorado paid for Nelson at the TDL). Either way, I would like the trade done so it’s not a distraction going into the season.
2. Vegas missing out on free agents. Obviously this is unlikely as they are always amongst the top teams for free agents to sign but I would like to see Vegas take a step back next season so that the unprotected first round pick the flames have from them (Hanifin trade) is maximized in value. From the rumour that they are looking at trading Hertl to make cap space, I have to believe they might be the front runner for Marner - which sucks because he is a dominant regular season player that likely gives them a shot at winning the division once again.
3. Take on salary from other teams if it means getting prospects or picks back in return. A good example might be Dumba with Dallas - although it’s not ideal to take on another right hand shot defenceman (would prefer a left shot), if Dallas was willing to make give something like a 2nd round pick with him, I would definitely do that.
4. Coleman trade. Not an urgent thing - I would be fine if this waits till the TDL but if there is a strong market for him (returns a 2nd round pick in 2026) then I would be happy to see the trade happen. Love the player and his leadership but the flames have a logjam of young wingers easy to make the team and more on the way in terms of prospects.
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