Two college free agents to the good guys

The Flames saw a weakness and did something about it today. As everyone was worried about the defensive cupboard being sparse, that it was nice to see the Flames filling it back up.

Connor Mackey

Mackey is a great character defencemen with potential. He is a solid defencemen with size, who has some toughness with a touch of offence.  He is an excellent skater, puck distributor, and a great shot. There is a good possibility of the Flames putting him in the lineup soon. A great signing to fill up the cupboard. Four years ago, he was Defensemen of the Year in the USHL. He was considered a 4 or 5 defencemen and is a  powerplay specialist. Russ Cowen* said Mackey, is a guy who has NHL tools; he sees opportunities for Mackey in Calgary on the blue line.

Colton Poolman

Colton is a leader in the dressing room.  With tons of offensive skill, he is a puck-moving dman. He can play in all aspects of his game but needs to develop his defensive skills. Colton was put in every situation and excelled. I am excited about his leadership skills and his character. Colton has the potential to be a solid second-pairing defenceman. Two years ago, in the NSCHC, he was a finalist for the player of the year. He was also up for defensive Defencemen of the Year as well as Offensive Defencemen of the Year.

These are solid signings with minimal risk. You can never go wrong with more defensive help.



*Russ Cowen - PHWA member, NHL radio. EP Rinkside. He just completed a college hockey book. #nyjets book next.  Twitter handle @sportsology. There is no one I trust more when it comes to hockey prospects.