[Winsor_Pilates]

Originally Posted by kehatch

Craig Conroy has been GM of the Flames for just over two years now, and it feels like he’s been letting the situation make the decisions for him. The team calls it a “retool,” but let’s be real—that’s just code for not fully committing to anything. They’re not rebuilding, but they’re also not trying to be competitive right now.

That kind of in-between approach has left the Flames stuck. Not terrible, not great—just a bit below average—a position fans are pretty used to.

To be fair, Conroy was busy in his first year. He had to deal with a bunch of expiring contracts and a crowded goalie situation. But since trading Markstrom before the 2024 draft he has made one move. One. A midseason trade that brought in Frost and Farabee—a smart gamble regardless of direction, but that’s it. One trade over two summers and a full season.

Last season was a weird one. The team overachieved, played above expectations, and came within a point of the playoffs. It was exciting for the fans and good for development, but it might’ve been the worst outcome long-term. It gave the illusion that this roster is better than it really is. The truth? They were propped up by strong goaltending and a relatively injury-free season. That’s not sustainable.

Now, don’t get me wrong—Conroy has done some solid work. He’s drafted well, hasn’t thrown money around recklessly, and hasn’t made any long-term moves that will come back to bite the team. You could nitpick a few signings or trades, but overall, he’s been smart and he has a few gems on his resume.

But at some point, he has to make a choice. Waiting around to see if the bottom falls out isn’t a plan. It’s time for Craig Conroy to stop reacting and start leading.

A GM can only pick a strategy; they cannot pick an outcome.

You're entire premise seems to be he hasn't picked a lane because the outcome of last season was better than expected.
It's a false premise.