The All-Star Break, It's Game On for Managers

Going into the All-Star break, the only people who will have the luxury of taking a break from hockey are the players themselves. The All-Star break is the busy season for managers and team officials; this is what they thrive on. While the players may be taking a break from the physical demands of the sport, Conroy ensures that their paycheques continue to roll in. 

The legwork is probably already done. This week, Conroy will check in on the progress of what teams need. He will discuss the compatibility of Calgary Flames players, such as Lindholm, Tanev, and the player I consider their most crucial asset, Hanifin, with other teams. 

Noah Hanifin

Noah is the best dman on the market. He is a terrific all-around defender. He is very good at pinching in the offensive zone and capitalizing on scoring chances for his team. Teams that could be looking to bolster their defensive lineup with Hanifin's presence include the Isles, Bruins, Leafs, and possibly Canucks. 

Elias Lindholm

In all honesty, Elias has been struggling all season, and the Flames will try to sell him in his previous history. However, Lindholm is a valuable asset for any team needing a solid second-line center. The teams I see as being interested are Sens, Oilers, Canucks, Avs, and Bruins.

Chris Tanev 

Chris is a rock in the defensive zone. He is the picture-perfect stay-at-home defenceman. He is a diehard shot blocker. He is fearless in his performance. Tanev's leadership qualities make him a valuable asset in any dressing room. Teams that might be interested in bringing Tanev's strengths to their defensive lineups are the Leafs, Canucks, and Isles.

Interesting tidbit: The Calgary Flames will be trying to clean up the dressing room, potentially resulting in a few surprise trades. I have no idea what will happen, but there could be a few players traded who will surprise us.

Randy

Kylington — Welcome Back

Watching this story break yesterday brought tears to my eyes. The Calgary Flames announced that Oliver Kylington from the Calgary Wranglers is heading out on a conditioning assignment. 

Firstly, I want to offer my sincere congratulations to Oliver. The road he had to travel and barriers he had to overcome are beyond belief. It is a miracle. As Flames fans—no, I should say, as fellow hockey lovers—we should applaud him and give him all the support we can.

Secondly, what does this mean for the Calgary Flames roster?

So, let’s talk hockey for a second. If Kylington’s conditioning assignment doesn’t last too long, it could make things easier for us to trade Hanifin. If Oliver can step up quickly, we could consider a futures trade for Hanifin, and Kylington could fill his spot.

It will take time for Oliver to get in game shape, but having Kylington on the team gives the Flames another option. Can Oliver regain his skills enough to make the Flames a playoff contender? I am not saying this move makes them a contender, but it’s definitely a possibility!

Then, you open up a whole bunch of opportunities. Let’s say the Flames are within two to four points away from making the playoffs. In that scenario, what would be your thoughts on Hanifin, Tanev, and, of course, Lindholm?

If the Flames are in a good position, this is what I was told: “I believe the Flames will fight for that playoff spot.” While they may make some player trades, they would be hockey trades, not future trades. 

In plain English, the Flames will bring in players who can contribute effectively to stay competitive in the playoff races. Only time will tell whether they will succeed.

Randy