Analyzing recent Calgary Flames trade proposals

The Calgary Flames are not a team that will disrupt chemistry or culture. They aren’t in the business of making moves that disrupt the room, even if they may be of value. So, this trade right here would never happen. Mikael Backlund is in the final year of his current contract. He is 36 years old and on an expiring contract. The captain has spent his entire career with the Flames and is still of value to the Flames’ lineup. He is a great two-way centre, and depending on how he does this season, he may need to slide down to the fourth line. 

Verdict: I would trade him. The Flames have too many centres and need to find a home for them, especially if they bring Justin Kirkland back. Plus, two draft picks isn’t a bad return for the 36-year-old.

More Rasmus Andersson proposals

Andersson to Carolina for picks

Do the Flames have to get a roster player back if they trade Rasmus Andersson? What would be of more value: two additional first-round picks or a player to add to your crowded NHL roster? Plus, the Carolina Hurricanes could really afford to bolster their defence after their last failed playoff run. 

Verdict: At the end of the day, they cannot afford to re-sign Andersson to a long-term deal. If this is the best offer they get, then yes, they should send him off. 

Andersson to the Sabres for Byram plus

One of the toughest pills to swallow wasn’t the Flames missing the playoffs by a hair. It was the fact that they were projected to be a draft lottery team. That obviously did not happen, and they are missing out on yet another top 10 pick.

Verdict : Yes. The Buffalo Sabres have the ninth overall pick, and Bowen Byram could be part of the Flames’ long-term picture when it comes to their defence group. The left side could use some upgrades, and Byram could be that guy.

The not-Rasmus Andersson deals

Coleman goes back to the Lightning

This is the third veteran who has come across the trade block. I just know the front office would hate this. Blake Coleman is 32 years old with two years remaining on his contract. He still has gas left in his tank, and again, moving on from him would allow the roster some flexibility. 

Verdict: Yes, let’s reunite Coleman with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Who doesn’t love nostalgia?

A homecoming for Kadri in Toronto

Oh look, another veteran! 

Verdict : No, the Flames do not need another right-handed defenceman and are all set with goalies. Maybe Brad Treliving can try again with a better offer?

The Flames take on a cap dump

The “notes” say it themselves. This would be a cap dump for the Buffalo Sabres. The Flames have more than enough cap space to take on cap dumps. The issue is that there is no room for Sam Lafferty on this roster. 

Verdict: No. This just doesn’t make sense unless the Flames are moving enough pieces out. Plus, I think Buffalo would need to throw in a draft pick of sorts to make it more attractive.

Sending Weegar home to Ottawa

MacKenzie Weegar is part of the Flames’ long-term plan. He is likely to be the next captain of the organization and has been its heartbeat since his acquisition. I don’t see a world where the Flames even entertain this.

Verdict: No.