Predict the 2016/2017 Flames Starting Lineup

[Flames Draft Watcher]

Originally Posted by Roof-Daddy

Still kind of hoping the Flames can sign Pirri to a two way.

Good competition in camp for Shinkaruk, etc and if he gets sent down would be a solid offensive "ringer" for the Heat.

Usually I agree with you Roof-Daddy but this suggestion seems questionable to me. Lots of concerns on Pirri's work ethic and play away from the puck. Doesn't seem like a Flames player at all. He sounds a lot like a less physical
Rene Bouque.

Zero interest in this type of player for me

[Par]

How do these lineups look to everyone?


Johnny Gaudreau-Sean Monahan-Troy Brouwer

When he was with the St. Louis Blues, Brouwer played mostly on the second line with youngster Robby Fabbri and Paul Stastny. Effective, smart, and steady, Brouwer could be just what the Flames are looking for when it comes to the perfect fit for the offensively gifted Monahan and Gaudreau. While the departed Jiri Hudler played that role, the most consistent right winger in that spot were the players with simple games (eg: David Jones, Micheal Ferland) with North/South styles.

Matthew Tkachuk-Sam Bennett-Hunter Shinkaruk

This is the ultimate kid line. With a combined 86-National Hockey League games between the three of them, it could be a long shot to imagine these three together. But it could also be a pile of fun. If Tkachuk, Calgary’s sixth-overall pick from this summer’s draft, comes into training camp like Monahan did in 2013, the teenager could naturally be slotted with Bennett and Shinkaruk. Bennett plays gritty and so does Tkachuk which could be excellent entertainment during, say, a Milan Lucic-infused Battle of Alberta.

Micheal Ferland-Mikael Backlund-Michael Frolik

You could call this one the Saint Line. Why? Besides the fact that all three are named after Saints (but spelled differently, of course), they could also be predictable when put together. Technically, this isn’t a third line (probably more of a 2B line). Frolik, for one, played second-line minutes for most of 2015-16 and developed excellent chemistry with Backlund, particularly on the penalty kill. Adding Ferland’s simple no-nonsense game complements two speedy finesse players.

Lance Bouma-Matt Stajan-Alex Chiasson

This trio could be a solid shut-down line. Every line needs to be solid on the forecheck. And while Stajan, 32, might not be the youngest on the block, he is a savvy veteran. After an injury-riddled 2015-16 campaign, Bouma will be playing with a chip on his shoulder and you know what that means: returning to his heavy-hitting ways of 2014-15. When the Flames signed Chaisson earlier this summer, head coach Gulutzan (who coached the 25-year-old in Dallas) gave his approval, saying he’s a “big body to get to the net.” Chaisson’s net-front presence could add to this blue-collar line.

DEFENCE

Mark Giordano-TJ Brodie

No issues keeping these two together. Since they’ve been a pairing, Giordano has credited Brodie’s smarts and ability. The two complement each other, see the ice well, and are in charge of shutting down other teams’ top lines. While the captain receives most of the headlines, Brodie’s work is done quietly and consistently (in 70 games played, he finished a plus-four).

Jyrki Jokipakka-Dougie Hamilton

It turns out, Dougie Hamilton wasn’t a complete bust that the media pegged him to be early last season. But with a full season with the Flames under his belt, Hamilton should be poised for a bounce-back year. His minus-14 was the worst among Flames’ blueliners. Meanwhile, the left-shooting Jokipakka will start fresh after being dealt to Calgary from Dallas at the NHL trade deadline.

Dennis Wideman-Deryk Engelland

This (relatively) grey-beard pairing isn’t ideal, but it’s a clean slate for both defenders. While Engelland is playing for his former ECHL coach Gulutzan, the man he credits with helping him getting his foot in the NHL door, Wideman is looking for redemption after last year’s miserable campaign. After dealing with injuries and the Don Henderson-suspension-potential lawsuit debacle in 2015-16, it’s also a contract year for the 33-year-old.

GOALIES

Brian Elliott

This is why the Calgary Flames went out and acquired the former St. Louis Blues native on draft-day: to be their No. 1 goalie.

Chad Johnson

Well-accustomed to the back-up role, the Calgarian has also proved he can fill in if necessary. Of his 42 decisions last year with the Buffalo Sabres, 22 were victories while he posted a respectable 2.36 goals against average and .920 save percentage.


http://calgaryherald.com/sports/hock...opening-roster

[MarkGio]

Originally Posted by Flames Draft Watcher

Usually I agree with you Roof-Daddy but this suggestion seems questionable to me. Lots of concerns on Pirri's work ethic and play away from the puck. Doesn't seem like a Flames player at all. He sounds a lot like a less physical
Rene Bouque.

Zero interest in this type of player for me

Rene Borque in his prime was an excellent player. He was an game changer when he decided to bring an effort. Still won't forget his hat trick against the Avs at the winter classic

[TheScorpion]

Originally Posted by MarkGio

Still won't forget his hat trick against the Avs at the winter classic

^ Not one part of this sentence is accurate:

- He scored two goals in that game, not three
- That game was called the Heritage Classic, not the Winter Classic
- The Flames played against Montreal in the Heritage Classic, not the Avs
- Evidently you have forgotten all of this

[MarkGio]

I meant Habs but was taking to an office mate about Patty Roy while I was posting

[the-rasta-masta]

Originally Posted by Par

How do these lineups look to everyone?


Johnny Gaudreau-Sean Monahan-Troy Brouwer

When he was with the St. Louis Blues, Brouwer played mostly on the second line with youngster Robby Fabbri and Paul Stastny. Effective, smart, and steady, Brouwer could be just what the Flames are looking for when it comes to the perfect fit for the offensively gifted Monahan and Gaudreau. While the departed Jiri Hudler played that role, the most consistent right winger in that spot were the players with simple games (eg: David Jones, Micheal Ferland) with North/South styles.

Matthew Tkachuk-Sam Bennett-Hunter Shinkaruk

This is the ultimate kid line. With a combined 86-National Hockey League games between the three of them, it could be a long shot to imagine these three together. But it could also be a pile of fun. If Tkachuk, Calgary’s sixth-overall pick from this summer’s draft, comes into training camp like Monahan did in 2013, the teenager could naturally be slotted with Bennett and Shinkaruk. Bennett plays gritty and so does Tkachuk which could be excellent entertainment during, say, a Milan Lucic-infused Battle of Alberta.

Micheal Ferland-Mikael Backlund-Michael Frolik

You could call this one the Saint Line. Why? Besides the fact that all three are named after Saints (but spelled differently, of course), they could also be predictable when put together. Technically, this isn’t a third line (probably more of a 2B line). Frolik, for one, played second-line minutes for most of 2015-16 and developed excellent chemistry with Backlund, particularly on the penalty kill. Adding Ferland’s simple no-nonsense game complements two speedy finesse players.

Lance Bouma-Matt Stajan-Alex Chiasson

This trio could be a solid shut-down line. Every line needs to be solid on the forecheck. And while Stajan, 32, might not be the youngest on the block, he is a savvy veteran. After an injury-riddled 2015-16 campaign, Bouma will be playing with a chip on his shoulder and you know what that means: returning to his heavy-hitting ways of 2014-15. When the Flames signed Chaisson earlier this summer, head coach Gulutzan (who coached the 25-year-old in Dallas) gave his approval, saying he’s a “big body to get to the net.” Chaisson’s net-front presence could add to this blue-collar line.

DEFENCE

Mark Giordano-TJ Brodie

No issues keeping these two together. Since they’ve been a pairing, Giordano has credited Brodie’s smarts and ability. The two complement each other, see the ice well, and are in charge of shutting down other teams’ top lines. While the captain receives most of the headlines, Brodie’s work is done quietly and consistently (in 70 games played, he finished a plus-four).

Jyrki Jokipakka-Dougie Hamilton

It turns out, Dougie Hamilton wasn’t a complete bust that the media pegged him to be early last season. But with a full season with the Flames under his belt, Hamilton should be poised for a bounce-back year. His minus-14 was the worst among Flames’ blueliners. Meanwhile, the left-shooting Jokipakka will start fresh after being dealt to Calgary from Dallas at the NHL trade deadline.

Dennis Wideman-Deryk Engelland

This (relatively) grey-beard pairing isn’t ideal, but it’s a clean slate for both defenders. While Engelland is playing for his former ECHL coach Gulutzan, the man he credits with helping him getting his foot in the NHL door, Wideman is looking for redemption after last year’s miserable campaign. After dealing with injuries and the Don Henderson-suspension-potential lawsuit debacle in 2015-16, it’s also a contract year for the 33-year-old.

GOALIES

Brian Elliott

This is why the Calgary Flames went out and acquired the former St. Louis Blues native on draft-day: to be their No. 1 goalie.

Chad Johnson

Well-accustomed to the back-up role, the Calgarian has also proved he can fill in if necessary. Of his 42 decisions last year with the Buffalo Sabres, 22 were victories while he posted a respectable 2.36 goals against average and .920 save percentage.


http://calgaryherald.com/sports/hock...opening-roster

Really like this. The kid line can actually make sense with the strength of the 3rd line there. You can really shelter their minutes with a 2nd line that not only plays well defensively but can chip in 100 points for you as well.

[smiggy77]

Originally Posted by TheScorpion

^ Not one part of this sentence is accurate:

- He scored two goals in that game, not three
- That game was called the Heritage Classic, not the Winter Classic
- The Flames played against Montreal in the Heritage Classic, not the Avs
- Evidently you have forgotten all of this

lololololololololololololololololololololololol

[t0rrent98]

The Flames should sign Justin Beiber to a PTO.... you see his sick moves in his Pick up game? Dayum!!!!!!!!

[TheScorpion]

Originally Posted by t0rrent98

The Flames should sign Justin Beiber to a PTO.... you see his sick moves in his Pick up game? Dayum!!!!!!!!

They'd be a fool to sign you, seeing how weak your shots are.

[dying4acup]

Originally Posted by Par

How do these lineups look to everyone?


Johnny Gaudreau-Sean Monahan-Troy Brouwer

When he was with the St. Louis Blues, Brouwer played mostly on the second line with youngster Robby Fabbri and Paul Stastny. Effective, smart, and steady, Brouwer could be just what the Flames are looking for when it comes to the perfect fit for the offensively gifted Monahan and Gaudreau. While the departed Jiri Hudler played that role, the most consistent right winger in that spot were the players with simple games (eg: David Jones, Micheal Ferland) with North/South styles.

Matthew Tkachuk-Sam Bennett-Hunter Shinkaruk

This is the ultimate kid line. With a combined 86-National Hockey League games between the three of them, it could be a long shot to imagine these three together. But it could also be a pile of fun. If Tkachuk, Calgary’s sixth-overall pick from this summer’s draft, comes into training camp like Monahan did in 2013, the teenager could naturally be slotted with Bennett and Shinkaruk. Bennett plays gritty and so does Tkachuk which could be excellent entertainment during, say, a Milan Lucic-infused Battle of Alberta.

Micheal Ferland-Mikael Backlund-Michael Frolik

You could call this one the Saint Line. Why? Besides the fact that all three are named after Saints (but spelled differently, of course), they could also be predictable when put together. Technically, this isn’t a third line (probably more of a 2B line). Frolik, for one, played second-line minutes for most of 2015-16 and developed excellent chemistry with Backlund, particularly on the penalty kill. Adding Ferland’s simple no-nonsense game complements two speedy finesse players.

Lance Bouma-Matt Stajan-Alex Chiasson

This trio could be a solid shut-down line. Every line needs to be solid on the forecheck. And while Stajan, 32, might not be the youngest on the block, he is a savvy veteran. After an injury-riddled 2015-16 campaign, Bouma will be playing with a chip on his shoulder and you know what that means: returning to his heavy-hitting ways of 2014-15. When the Flames signed Chaisson earlier this summer, head coach Gulutzan (who coached the 25-year-old in Dallas) gave his approval, saying he’s a “big body to get to the net.” Chaisson’s net-front presence could add to this blue-collar line.

DEFENCE

Mark Giordano-TJ Brodie

No issues keeping these two together. Since they’ve been a pairing, Giordano has credited Brodie’s smarts and ability. The two complement each other, see the ice well, and are in charge of shutting down other teams’ top lines. While the captain receives most of the headlines, Brodie’s work is done quietly and consistently (in 70 games played, he finished a plus-four).

Jyrki Jokipakka-Dougie Hamilton

It turns out, Dougie Hamilton wasn’t a complete bust that the media pegged him to be early last season. But with a full season with the Flames under his belt, Hamilton should be poised for a bounce-back year. His minus-14 was the worst among Flames’ blueliners. Meanwhile, the left-shooting Jokipakka will start fresh after being dealt to Calgary from Dallas at the NHL trade deadline.

Dennis Wideman-Deryk Engelland

This (relatively) grey-beard pairing isn’t ideal, but it’s a clean slate for both defenders. While Engelland is playing for his former ECHL coach Gulutzan, the man he credits with helping him getting his foot in the NHL door, Wideman is looking for redemption after last year’s miserable campaign. After dealing with injuries and the Don Henderson-suspension-potential lawsuit debacle in 2015-16, it’s also a contract year for the 33-year-old.

GOALIES

Brian Elliott

This is why the Calgary Flames went out and acquired the former St. Louis Blues native on draft-day: to be their No. 1 goalie.

Chad Johnson

Well-accustomed to the back-up role, the Calgarian has also proved he can fill in if necessary. Of his 42 decisions last year with the Buffalo Sabres, 22 were victories while he posted a respectable 2.36 goals against average and .920 save percentage.


http://calgaryherald.com/sports/hock...opening-roster

I'm doubtful, whether or not Tkachuk makes the team, that Bennett wouldn't have a vet beside him. I'm even more doubtful, if Tkachuk is on one of his wings. There is no way a line of Tkachuk Bennett and Shinkaruk is getting 2nd line minutes unless the Flames are devoted to rebuilding, and not winning.

[Vinny01]

http://calgaryherald.com/sports/hock...opening-roster

The move I would make at forward is swapping Shinkaruk and Ferland. I would love to see what a Tkachuk-Bennett-Ferland line could do. Gulutzan could feed them the easy minutes this year and that line could feast on weaker opponents

[ricardodw]

Originally Posted by dying4acup

I'm doubtful, whether or not Tkachuk makes the team, that Bennett wouldn't have a vet beside him. I'm even more doubtful, if Tkachuk is on one of his wings. There is no way a line of Tkachuk Bennett and Shinkaruk is getting 2nd line minutes unless the Flames are devoted to rebuilding, and not winning.

There would be a better chance of Bennett between Chaisson and/or Bouma or Hathaway or Vey. Vey had a 15 pts in 41 games in the NHL basically matching Chaisson's 35 pt season 3 seasons ago.

Be very interesting if Shinkaruk beats out 1) Vey, 2) Jankowski 3) Hathaway 4) Bollig for a roster spot.

Vey was pretty much even in the LA prospect trio of Toffoli and Pearson before his family disaster took place in 2013. If he is able to put that mess behind him he was a better prospect/player than Shinkaruk is now.


If Jankowski gets off to a good start I could see Stajan bumped up to the wing and Jankowski getting his NHL feet wet with 4th line centre minutes.

[Samonadreau]

Originally Posted by ricardodw

There would be a better chance of Bennett between Chaisson and/or Bouma or Hathaway or Vey. Vey had a 15 pts in 41 games in the NHL basically matching Chaisson's 35 pt season 3 seasons ago.

Be very interesting if Shinkaruk beats out 1) Vey, 2) Jankowski 3) Hathaway 4) Bollig for a roster spot.

Vey was pretty much even in the LA prospect trio of Toffoli and Pearson before his family disaster took place in 2013. If he is able to put that mess behind him he was a better prospect/player than Shinkaruk is now.


If Jankowski gets off to a good start I could see Stajan bumped up to the wing and Jankowski getting his NHL feet wet with 4th line centre minutes.

I would actually agree with you about Vey he is a wildcard and could surprise some people but not about Janko - He needs to play alot this year and could really benefit from 1st/2nd line minutes in Stockton. We will definitely see him in a few call ups and maybe stick this year but he needs to play more than 10-12 minutes a night to start the year. If he sticks out of camp it will be in a top 9 role which means he would need to play on the wing. Who knows though.

[bax]

Gaudreau - Monahan - x
Bouma - Bennett - Brouwer
Ferland - Backlund - Frolik
Hathaway - Stajan - Chiasson

Bollig, Shinkaruk, Vey, Tkachuk

Giordano - Brodie
Jokkipaka - Hamilton
Wideman - Engelland
Wotherspoon

Elliot
Johnson

Not sure who to slot in on the top line, but here's my basic prediction. I think Tkachuk will get his 9 games, but I'm not convinced he will stay up. We will see how he does.

I don't think Shinkaruk will make the team out of camp, but I bet he'll be up sooner rather than later.

Wotherspoon will make the team as the 7th defenseman due to be waiver eligible and he will eventually take Wideman's spot.

[AcGold]

There's going to be some surprises at camp. I would wager money Jankowski makes the team.

[Enoch Root]

Originally Posted by AcGold

There's going to be some surprises at camp. I would wager money Jankowski makes the team.

alright - how much?

[djsFlames]

I have a hunch that it could be Jankowski over Tkachuk too. Maybe it's the 4 years of seasoning in the NCAA on a defense oriented team system and the size + skill factor. Whoever looks better alongside Bennett I think will be the guy to stick, because Johnny-Monahan and Backlund-Fro are already set pairings, and Bennett has had a revolving door of wingers to this point. They're going to want to solidify his line with some talent there, and Brouwer to me was acquired solely to slot in on the top line. So it's gonna be another kid. Take your pick.

But definitely wouldn't rule out Tkachuk forcing his way in and Janks getting time on the farm.

Pribyl is also a wild card in all of this. Can't forget him.

[bigrangy]

Here's how I want it to be:

Gaudreau-Monahan-Brouwer

self explanatory. hopefully this works well.

Shinkaruk/Tkachuk/Jankowski/Acquistion-Bennett-Frolik

#2LW is the most immediate weakness for the Flames this season alongside #4D. It should be a big battle in camp to see who gets to play there. I think Ferland will be joined at the hip with Backlund this year, but he could be a possiblity here as well. Bennett deserves a veteran winger, and Frolik is absolutely a top 6 guy, and deserves more offensive opportunity after being used improperly last year.

Ferland-Backlund-Chiasson

the shutdown line with some offensive flair. I expect a career revitalization out of Chiasson, and a career season from Ferland. Backlund continues to be his impressive self, and this line might become the 2nd line if Bennett's line falters.

Bouma-Stajan-Vey/Hamilton/Hathaway/Pribyl

If I were a betting man, I'd say Hamilton will be the 4th line RW, with the other three playing in Stockton or in the PB. This should be an effective 4th line. Bollig warms the pressbox and plays when he has to facepunch.

Giordano-Brodie

Classic.

Kulak-Hamilton

I really think Jokipakka is the obvious choice here, but the Jokipakka-Hamilton pairing showed (albeit in limited minutes) that it isn't a great option. I think Wotherspoon will be traded once Kulak beats him out in camp (probably to Vancouver, probably for Virtanen haha), so Kulak will be the best option here. He had a great year in the AHL last year and looked good in his games at the start of the year.

Jokipakka-Nakladal

Brad and GG will commit fully to an analytics push, Wideman will be traded @50% to NJD for a 5th or something, and Engelland will be press-box fodder for most of the year. Jokipakka-Nakladal will be everything one could want from a bottom pairing and provide safe, boring hockey. If Wideman won't waive his NMC, stuff him in the pressbox, and send Engelland to the AHL or play him at forward.

Goalies are obvious, and if they can provide league average netminding, the Flames should be competitive.

This roster comes in at just over $70 mil, with Smid buried in Stockton. Money exists to shore up 2LW and 4D, but the expendable assets really aren't there. If Bennett, Shink/Tkachuk, and a d-man can take the next step, I expect the Flames to be serious contenders in 2017-18.

[FBI]

Man, you gotta take "go flams" off your signature for us to take you seriously.

[MarkGio]

Originally Posted by FBI

Man, you gotta take "go flams" off your signature for us to take you seriously.

I disagree. Go Flams pizza!