How to execute a rebuild in Calgary, and a reset in Edmonton and Florida: Duhatschek notebook

Why the NHL Needs to Embrace Fantasy Hockey Strategies

It’s too bad that the NHL isn’t more like fantasy hockey. If it were, the Calgary Flames may have had their franchise turned around in about five minutes. In fantasy hockey, you can quickly move pieces around and make changes, and if it doesn’t work out, just shuffle things again. Unfortunately, in the real world of the NHL, it’s much more difficult. At this point in the season, the Flames are in the spotlight, with the trade deadline still months away. It’s clear that this team might not be built to win in the current season. With key players like Elias Lindholm, Noah Hanifin, Chris Tanev, and Nikita Zadorov in the final years of their contracts, the Flames need to explore trade possibilities.

The Arizona Coyotes undertook a successful rebuild during the pandemic when the salary cap stayed flat. They were able to take on bad contracts and land premium draft capital. Today, the Coyotes have a strong pipeline of young players and prospects, which sets them up for future success. The Flames are also looking at building a new arena after years of stalled initiatives. This could be a sign of a new era for the team, which may coincide with the maturation of their young core.

However, executing a rebuild strategy is more complex than devising one, and the timing can be tricky. It’s unclear whether the fan base is ready to embrace a new, younger core until the changes are made. The Flames have several premium players that could be offered up in the trade market, and their reasonable cap hits make them attractive targets. Teams that are contenders are always looking for help, and it’s crucial for the Flames to make smart trades that benefit both sides.

Overall, it’s apparent that Calgary is in a position to make some bold moves and reinvigorate the team. By utilizing smart and strategic trading, they have the potential to build a more competitive and successful future.

Reference

Sarah Anderson

Sarah Anderson dives into the fast-paced world of NHL hockey. Her coverage includes game analysis, player spotlights, and the latest news from the ice. Sarah’s dedication to the sport ensures that hockey enthusiasts stay informed about the NHL’s thrilling action.