[Leeman4Gilmour]

I'd classify myself in the 'retool' category. Mostly, because of Wolf. Maybe Parekh. That could be '2 of 3' key positional game changers. Obviously, the center position is missing. My thoughts below.

Originally Posted by Jason14h

Question : For the non tank crowd / or slower rebuild/retool crowd -

What is the argument for keeping Coleman, Backlund, Kadri (for arguments assuming he was willing to go or once his trade protection changes) , Andersson and Weegar ?

Outside of Weegar non of these players will be on the team/have any real impact when the Flames expect to compete

1. You think the Flames will compete in the next 3 seasons and we need these guys? They outperformed expectations by about 15 points last year (Pinder pointed that out based on pre-season odds). There will be no split in goal tending this year. Wolf is clear cut #1. If he performs as I think he can, the Flames can indeed compete. It can go the other way as well. Wolf can have the sophomore slump as well. Then we're a lottery team. But, I am a huge believer in Wolf so expect to be in a similar postion as last year. That's why I think they will compete. I think we need some of the veterans to aid in this, yes. You look at the teams with their young stars and they are now bringing in veteran presences to help them. We already have that.
2. You believe the culture will fall apart if we trade them? No, not fall apart. Another year, year and a half of continuity while the team reforms with younger players is beneficial I believe. In saying that, I 100% expect/want Andersson to be traded soon. And, if this season reverts to where odds makers think the Flames should be, I suspect Kadri, Coleman and Backlund could be gone on by the deadline as well.
3. You're worried we become Buffalo for... reasons? But these guys will be old, retired or off the team anyways so not sure how they can impact that. Its the next generation that will. I have never related our situation to Buffalo
EDIT 4. You believe these players will appreciate in trade value over the next few years? Obviously not. Players don't appreciate as they get older. I think a guy like Kadri will maintain value over the next 2 years though. Coleman as well.

I am genuinely curious how any of the over 30 guys or UFA Andersson have any impact on the Flames 3 years from now and a better team in 3 years time? There are a boatload of over 30 guys who positively impact the teams they play for. Andersson will be traded. Lomberg is on his last year. We're talking 5 out of 23 guys (at most) on this roster for the start of the 2026 season who are over 30