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

Flames Ignited: A Winning Formula?

The Calgary Flames have been making headlines this week. First, let's talk about the positive: the Flames are on a two-game winning streak. I will take a step further: they were so dominant in their game against the Stars that they would have emerged victorious if it weren't for the superhuman goalie Jake Oettinger. Sometimes, you have to tip your hat to the goalie. 

What is going right?  

The first step is getting Nazem Kadri to buy in. Kadri's performance has significantly improved. His active involvement is vital for the Flames' success. With the addition of fresh talent to the lineup, Kadri appears to have found a renewed sense of purpose. This leads us to the second thing that has gone right.

The new call-ups have lit a fire under this team. (Pun intended—see what I did there?) Connor Zary has been a spark plug since he was called up. He looks like a seasoned vet with the remarkable skills he has displayed so far. Zary has three points in his first three games and could have had plenty more.

Martin Pospispil has the speed to burn. Martin has made his mark, making his presence known. He is a hard-working forward who uses his size to his advantage. Martin also scored in his first game of the season. His tenacity and skill have given him plenty of scoring opportunities.

The third and final reason for their success is the fact the team has bought into the system. The players are working harder, remembering the game is won on the boards. They are actively competing for the puck and, for a change, winning the puck battles. That means they have puck possession more often. When you have the puck more, you can score more. 

If the players continue to work hard and buy into the system, they may force management to rethink selling or buying players at the deadline. If the Flames are close in the playoff race, there may be a future for Hanifin, Tanav, and Lindholm.

Conclusion

I know that management made the right decision for Huberdeau. Watching him on the bench does not bring me pleasure. It is a challenge to understand what is happening. I know everyone is jumping on Huberdeau, but let's think about this for a second, shall we? Both the coach and the player may be at fault for not finding a suitable system. Huberdau is built for run-and-gun, but the Flames are more of a defensive team than run-and-gun. It sometimes takes time for a player to adjust to a new system. That's all I am saying. Something to think about.

Randy

The Calgary Flames' Comedy of Errors: Golf, Waffles, and Undercover Boss

I have overheard some interesting conversations on the street lately. Let's listen in on a conversation between two people walking by. I know it's eavesdropping, but we only live once!

Bob: Hey, look at that. Is that a new waffle shop being built?

Joe: No, that's just the Calgary Flames waffling on whether or not they are going to trade Hanifin. I wish they would make a decision already. Personally, I'm not too fond of waffles.

Bob: Look at that person running and laughing all the way to the bank. He must be some kind of successful businessman. I wouldn't mind having some of his dough. Let me tell you, that would be nice.

Joe: I think that's Hanifin's or Lindholm's agent. You're right; he's definitely in the right line of work.

Bob: I wonder what kind of education you need to do well in that field.

Joe: I imagine you would need some kind of degree. Counting up to a million takes some learnin'. 

Bob: Look—oh no! Look at that fire on the golf course. Oh, the humanity! That poor golf course."

Joe: Oh, that is just Flames players on the golf course. They're not very good at that either.

Bob: Hey, look at those guys just watching their teammates getting beaten up and not stepping in to help. No team will even give them a chance."

Joe: Yeah, they're Calgary Flames recruits. They have been watching too many Flames games. They should put on Golden Knights games. They might learn a thing or two about hockey.

Bob: Maybe you should apply to become the Calgary Flames hockey coach. You are pretty knowledgeable about what is going on with the Calgary Flames."

Joe: Shh, can you keep a secret? I am actually on Undercover Boss, looking for Flames who actually know how to play hockey. Just taking a break from work.

Oops! It seems like I stumbled upon a potential future episode of Undercover Boss. Let's keep this conversation to ourselves; I wouldn't want to get in trouble with the network!

Happy Halloween! The Calgary Flames have been a horror show this season. I hope the trick-and-treating can stop, or maybe we need to change the script. The only other option is just to laugh and say, "Oh well, that's the Calgary Flames." It's better than crying.

Randy

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Not So Hot: Flames' Mental Errors Impact Early Games

This season is already bringing back bad memories from last year, as I notice the resurgence of bad habits. In two out of three games, the Flames have secured leads only to allow them to slip away. The main problem seems to be mental, as the team fails to maintain their performance for sixty minutes of gameplay.

I am seeing some improvements. Huberdeau looks like he is invested this season, playing more with increased energy. Backlund is acting like a Captain, being a leader out on the ice. Then there is this kid, Matthew Cornado, who consistently works hard to make a difference. But the bottom line is that this team should be 3-0 instead of 1-1-1. The Flames had leads in both Washington and Pittsburgh but only managed to secure one point. The team needs to be better. There were too many breakdowns defensively, and they were a mess in Pittsburgh.  

I know people blame the one goal in the Capitals game on Marky. But the team does not have to stop playing after a bad break! When the Flames have a lead against a beatable team like the Caps, they have to keep on them and throttle them. Instead, the Flames slow down and let Washington catch and beat them. The Flames lack the killer instinct required in such situations. Coleman and Kadri, who have cups, need to nip this in the bud. Don't let it become a recurring problem. Our star players must step up when needed and remain visible even when the going gets tough. 

While it may be early in the season, but if we have the same mental errors later in the season, it will come back to bite us. To those who argue that it's too early to worry, consider this: do wins later in the season earn us more points? Just something to ponder.

Best player so far this season

Matthew Cornado has been a spark plug for the team, infusing the dressing room with his contagious enthusiasm. He is a breath of fresh air. 

Randy

Flames on Fire: The Five Statements That Will Ignite Calgary's Success

Describing last season as a disaster would be an understatement. The Calgary Flames fell significantly short of their team goals and expectations. They found ways to lose and continue to lose. Here are five statements that must come true for the Calgary Flames to be a success this year.

Noah Hanifin Situation

Craig Conroy has to find a way to trade Noah as quickly as possible. Not only does he have to trade Noah, but he has to ensure the Calgary Flames remain competitive after making the trade. Flames ownership has made it quite clear that come hell or high water, the Flames will be a playoff team, or Craig Conroy will be finding a job for McDonald's. I am being facetious, but you get the point. Management's and ownership's top priority must be for the Calgary Flames to be a competitive, successful team this season.

Jonathan Huberdeau 

Get cracking, Jonathan. With your new coach and system in place, it's time to dial it up. Huberdeau will be highly motivated to have a good season. He is determined to get things straight. He knows he owes Flames fans more than he gave them last year. I am confident that he will be a dominant force, and this is crucial for the Calgary Flames' playoff hopes. He needs to get back to his 100-point season this year.

Nazem Kadri

Nazem has to be a leader in the dressing room. He has to be smarter on the ice and off the ice. He has to clean up the dressing room so there's no conflict among the players. He has to be the solution to the problem and not add to the problem. Kadri has to get his 25-30 goals and accumulate 65 to 70 points. He needs to be a pest. He has to be in the opposition's heads, not his teammates. If he does these things, he will be a fan favorite. 

Jacob Markstrom

Everyone but the kitchen sink blamed last season's problems on Jacob. Whether that is accurate or not, he does have to improve. However, the lackluster support he received from the defense is disappointing. Well, Jacob has to be Jacob; he is one of the best goalies in the league and capable of returning to that. By avoiding costly goals and maintaining a solid position, he has the potential to become one of the league's top goalkeepers, leading the Calgary Flames to victory. The Flames fans will be dancing in the streets.

Players must be committed

The Calgary Flames are currently facing uncertainty as players such as Lindholm, Hannifin, and Backlund are hesitant to commit to contract extensions. Understandably, players want to assess their options before committing long-term, but they can't abdicate their responsibility for ensuring a competitive season. It's a catch-22: darned if they do and darned if they don't. 

Flames Draft Day

Even though I never pick the draft right, I always enjoy this draft blog. The Calgary Flames are poised to make an exciting selection this year. They will try their best to get another draft selection. There are rumors of Hanifin going, with 6-8 teams interested in acquiring him. Working the premise that there is only one draft pick in the first round, here is my choice. With only one first-round pick available, the Flames appear to have their sights set on dman David Reinbacher. But chances are he will be gone by the 16th pick, forcing the Flames to consider other options.

My picks: 

First Round

16 Matthew Wood - Left Wing

Matthew is an intelligent player with soft hands with a great explosive shot. His greatest strength will be his one-timers. He will be an offensive weapon on the powerplay. Matthew is a silky-smooth forward with an impressive hockey IQ who will be dangerous in the offensive zone.

 

Second Round

48 Jesse Kiiskinen - Left Wing

 

Jesse is a highly skilled winger who plays a high-tempo game. He has excellent hands and skates like the wind. He is a gifted winger wi a good hockey IQ, although he could use some work to develop in the defensive zone. Jesse possesses excellent passing abilities with great vision. I hope the Flames grab this kid. 

80 Third Round

Andrew Strathmann - Defense

Andrew is a talented D-man who is speedy, plays a rough game, and is not afraid to get his nose dirty. The Flames could use his durablity and his toughness. He has a good a shot and knows how to jump in to keep the puck in.

Fourth Round

112 Felix Unger Sörum - Left Wing

Felix is a talented winger with excellent skating skills. Despite his raw talent, most people feel he will need time to develop. If the Flames are willing to be patient, he could be a future star.

For the last two picks, I will list them without a write-up.

Sixth Round

177 Noah Chadwick - Defense

Seventh Round

207 Ty Halaburda - Left Wing