[sureLoss]

https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article...-to-slip-away/

There are two things Conroy has done extremely well since taking the GM job three summers ago. The first is building a prospect base. Those who know this area much better than I do (including Sportsnet’s own Jason Bukala and Sam Cosentino) say impactful players are on the radar around the time the Flames open their new arena in Fall 2027. That’s important for this organization. You want your fans to be excited about what’s on the ice when those doors open.

The second thing he’s done very well is eliminate noise. The 2023-24 season was a painful one. Noah Hanifin was traded during, Jacob Markstrom in the aftermath. Other veterans indicated they wanted to follow, but Conroy held firm — asking them to come to camp ready to go with an open mind, seeing how the season went before making any bold proclamations. Those players fulfilled their side of the bargain, helping push Calgary past what was expected.

There was no drama, a welcome change.

It’s early and I don’t like to panic. But, what I think the Flames know is that this “quiet” may only last as long as everyone feels they are in postseason contention. The best thing Conroy can do is remind everyone the easiest solution is to pull together to climb out of the early-season pit. But, if it doesn’t change…will the agents be calling, asking for trades?

Some fans might say, “I’ll drive them to the airport!” While I understand the emotion, its not entirely practical. The Flames have a tough time attracting free agents (something they hope their new building addresses). A mass exodus creates more holes to plug. Not everyone is as dedicated to Southern Alberta as Mikael Backlund.

The Flames missed the playoffs seven straight seasons at the turn of the century, and five straight seasons last decade. It’s soul-crushing, and those of us on the outside don’t always recognize the internal damage, fear and stress that causes. It leaves scars. You don’t forget.

You worry that one bad season snowballs into three or four, with your veteran players walking out the door. But, even if there is short-term pain, the Flames are not without hope of long-term gain. You get a great deal you can’t say no to, that’s one thing. But to beg for something fleeting is another. Panic and short-term thinking are to be avoided at all costs.

It’s not easy to hear in October. It will bother the veterans who want to contend. But, if the Flames don’t steady themselves and surge back into the race, the right option, as much as it sucks for the players, is to take your best shot at one of those top picks, believing that will energize your franchise and add the type of skill your lineup desperately needs.