Calgary Flames: Let’s Get the Fire Started

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By Ryan Holmer (@RyanHolmerNHL)

As we approach the trade deadline, the Calgary Flames and Jay Feaster are closer than ever to an actual fire sale. Trade rumours have begun to run wild, and hockey ‘insiders’ everywhere are listing prices for players, and if they’re available or not. Feaster – while he hasn’t made any moves yet, is certainly beginning to see the light.

When talking to Flames fans this season, the level of frustration appears to have hit an all-time high. Several fans have started hoping that Calgary loses, so that Jay Feaster realizes that there is an issue with the current roster, and finally takes off his blindfold. The Flame’s have been a tease this season. They play well for a few games, and everyone gets excited. The next game, they lose in terrible fashion, and go on a three game skid. It’s been a bumpy season, and the inconsistency is a real issue.

Aside from the terrible statistical season, Calgary has seen some good signs. Mikael Backlund, although he’s been plagued with injuries, is having a good season. He has regained his swagger and is looking like that skilled, playmaking centre that the Flames were hoping for. TJ Brodie is also playing quite good this season, and is starting to grow into a very solid defenseman.

Another glimmer of light for those devoted fans, is that several key insiders are beginning to actually list prices for players on the roster. This has never happened before, and begs the question of, just how serious these discussions are. Key names being brought up in discussion are Jay Bouwmeester, and Jarome Iginla. Jay Bouwmeester has been linked to Philadelphia, with quite a high price. It’s unlikely he moves anywhere, unless Jay Feaster lowers the price, or is willing to eat some of his salary.

Jarome Iginla, the Flames captain is a name that we will be hearing a lot about over the next coming week, as we approach the trade deadline. He is still a top six forward, with good offensive abilities, great leadership and is willing to drop the gloves if needed. He would be a key asset to any team with hopes of going for a playoff run. The price has been speculated by many, and it’s believed to be a draft pick, a top four defenseman, and a roster player. It’s a steep price, but given Iginla’s track record, and his ability to put a team over the top, it is fair. Iginla does have an NTC, and will ultimately be the final decision maker, he’s a class act and will do anything to help his team, short or long-term.

Other names being thrown around are ; Alex Tanguay, Curtis Glencross, Miikka Kiprusoff, and Lee Stempniak.

Don’t expect anything to be done right away. This three-game road trip is going to be a big indicator of where the team is heading. If Calgary loses even two if it’s games, look for something to be done. After the loss last night in Dallas, Calgary is heading to Nashville, and then Columbus. While Nashville and Columbus certainly aren’t the best teams, they aren’t the worst, and are both ahead of Calgary in the standings. If Calgary can’t win both of those games, you can imagine that Feaster will be steaming, and the Flames may indeed start to burn.

The beginning of a Jarome-less era may indeed be approaching. You can look at it, and be happy for Iginla that he may finally get to hold the Stanley Cup, and the Flames may actually begin rebuild their youth.