Quoting: Ledge_And_Dairy
Why do they need to add a top 6 player from a different team? Also Nino is underrated and the only reason I wouldn't want him is because he will cost 5M
Nino is streaky, lacks consistency. Maybe why he is still on the market.
And yes, I would say the Flames do need a top 6 forward. Peterson, Tkachuk and Toffoli fit the bill, but beyond that I would have concerns.
Backlund: a maybe 2C, 40-50 poijt production defensively excellent, but also aging. I think he gets back to that production yes, but he has this role due to Monhan going in the tank.
Magnipane: a maybe 2nd line player who had a career year last year. Maybe this is what he is. Maybe is his a highly effective 3rd liner. For a team in win now mode, do you risk it?
Coleman: a sherwd pick up last year, came exactly as advertised. 40 point production, plays a good two way game with lots of sandpaper. Do you play him 17-18 minutes a night? That's a debate
Dubé: came on very strong down the stretch, so maybe something has come together. Seen him as 2nd line potential in the past, has the game. Do you bank on that moving into next year?
Pelletier: should make the team out of camp. NHL ready imo. Most would agree starting him on the 3rd line, see where it goes and let him play up the line up. By no means a lock in the top 6 this season, certainly should end up there.
Why I would go with someone on an expiring deal is this allows Flames management to truly gauge if Dubé has taken the next step, and where Pelletier is in his development. To see if Magnipane is the real deal.
If any of those hold true, then you have a player exit, and the Flames can focus on the 2C position (is that Zary?).
For a team in win now mode, they need someone who is consistent and proven..... offensive by committee (which I would argue is the current model) won't be enough to guarentee a playoff spot. Edmonton got way better. LA looks like they are back in the mix. The Canucks could be interesting (blueline issues imo), Vegas if they are healthier may bounce back.
It simply stuns me that the usually active Treliving did not have a Johnny plan B. The need for a top 6 forward without him is glaringly clear. But committing money and term is not the place I would be going this year. 3 players have the potential to fill the rolls, but insurance is needed.