Quote:
Originally Posted by Bingo
But wouldn't a 13 team no trade list essentially be iron clad at the deadline?
Submit teams 1-13 in the standings and likely you're not going anywhere.
Teams below that wouldn't be adding at the deadline.
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My definition of ironclad is essentially zero chance. 3 out of 16 to me is no longer ironclad. Plus, I do think there could be 1-2 teams outside the playoffs by the deadline who like their chances too - a young team on the rise, or perhaps a contender that had a poor stretch, but are back on track.
Also, when does the list need to be submitted by, and how long does it remain in effect for? Does Kadri submit his list on July 1st? The day before the season opens? Or is it by Conroy's request, and if so, does it last 30 days? A full season? Depending on this, it could definitely add a few options to the list.
Even ignoring the above, I am not sure that Kadri and his agent just pick off 13 teams that are in a playoff spot. If he had an expiring contract, then definitely this would be the way to go. I do think because of the term, there may be a couple of teams that would feel more comfortable spending assets on him, even if they end up not making the playoffs that season. Unlikely, yes, but I do think that is a consideration I would be looking at if I am Kadri.
It will be interesting next season to see if he stays or goes. I see value both ways - trading him, or keeping him around as a grizzled vet through the rebuild. I try to put myself in Kadri's shoes, and if I want as much control as possible in my destination, this upcoming season's deadline is my best bet. After that, I can make things difficult for them. However, I may be happy to go 1-2 destinations, but the Flames will have an additional 1 minimum, and up to 4 total other options to move me to. Do I worry about it, or do I approach Conroy this season?
I am just not convinced of anything definitive either way. Lots of players with term get traded, and often they were happy to remain where they were. No idea when - or even if - Kadri gets traded. My argument is simply that Kadri's best chance at engineering a trade to a particular destination is this season. After that, it opens up, and there will be more options available to the Flames, regardless of how well he picks his list, even trying to adjust for teams' respective center depths.