I don't think that this is the right time for a trade (unless some team steps up with an offer that blows Conroy's socks off!), and certainly not to simply appease a fan base.
I don't think the Flames can send anyone out and walk back those statements now - it would be perceived as them just bowing to public pressure, and perhaps not having a plan. I think it would create too much uncertainty.
Know what would appease me and make me feel a little better? How about announcing a new deal for Conroy? That would relieve the pressure, especially for the fans who are left thinking that this team isn't rebuilding and Conroy is about to get axed (which I won't deny has crossed my mind a couple of times recently as well). That would make me feel better. Get Conroy smiling out in a media availability discussing his shiny new contract, but simply stating: "We are keeping the direction in-house. Everything is always being considered, and things will unfold as the season progresses. Other than that, no comment."
I would be much more relieved, or at least feeling more positive. I guess it probably won't happen until the off-season, but I would be surprised if it doesn't happen at all. I am still convinced that this plan really is all about rebuilding, and the Flames at this spot in the standings is not 'unexpected'. Maybe they didn't think they would be dead last, but just in the bottom 5-10, and after trading out some key pieces later on this season, the plan would be to sink into the bottom 3. Maybe that's what the plan really was.
I guess we will just see what happens as the season goes along. It just would be nice to be thrown a bone here and have Conroy's extension come a little early.
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