Flames' GM Looking At Trading Plan For A 'Long Term' Center

Summary:

• The Flames are seeking a right-shot center, but a trade is unlikely.
• Their pursuit is hindered by a lack of available options in the current trade market.
• An opposing GM has confirmed that the situation looks bleak for Calgary’s search.

The Calgary Flames are actively searching for a right-shot center, but according to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, a trade is unlikely to materialize anytime soon. 

The team’s pursuit of a center has been hindered by a lack of available options on the NHL market. 

An opposing general manager (GM) has confirmed that the situation is not promising for Calgary’s search.

Looking to Upgrade Their Roster

The Flames have made it no secret that they want to upgrade their roster, particularly at center. 

The need became more pressing after a recent game against the Seattle Kraken, where Calgary’s struggles in the faceoff circle led to a tying goal. 

Since the departure of Elias Lindholm, the Flames have felt the absence of a reliable right-handed faceoff specialist. However, as Nashville Predators GM Barry Trotz put it, “no one is giving their centremen away“.

Trotz, who is also in the market for a center, explained that he’s having similar difficulties.

“Everybody’s looking for the same thing”, he said, emphasizing that other teams aren’t willing to part with valuable centers this early in the season.

Calgary is reportedly willing to pay the price to acquire what they need, but it’s too soon for most teams to offload key assets. 

Centers, particularly right-shot ones, are in high demand across the league, and teams are reluctant to make significant trades so early in the season. 

No Big Moves to Be Expected Anytime Soon 

Friedman noted that no major moves are expected shortly.

Fortunately for Calgary, GM Craig Conroy (pictured) is not rushing into any deals. He’s taking a patient approach, waiting for the right opportunity that fits both in terms of long-term value and team chemistry. 

Conroy told Sportsnet’s Eric Francis, “Sending a first-round pick for a guy who would be here for a year doesn’t make much sense”, adding that if it were a first-round pick for someone who would stay “long term”, they would be “open to that”.

While rumors may continue to swirl around the Flames, fans shouldn’t expect a trade in the immediate future. Can the Flames continue to perform without a center? Hurricanes are next up – get the best live NHL odds and more here.