Massive Retool

Team: 2021-22 Calgary Flames

Initial Creation Date: May 10, 2021

Published: May 10, 2021

Salary Cap Mode: Basic

I think the Flames should focus more of a retool than a rebuild. Sean Monahan would be the only piece of the veteran core to stick around being that top 6 centre's are difficult to replace and still remain competitive.

Florida would seem to be a perfect fit for Backlund, as Quennville loves his centres to play a full 200ft game and Backlund could slide in nicely behind Barkov. Tippett is a high ask, but Calgary's made it clear many times that they need a right handed shooting forward and Tippett is the only guy who really fits that for them. The Panthers do have guys behind Tippett that could take his place, that could make him available. Ultimately the Flames retain 15% of Backlund's contract and take on 1 year of Stralman's contract to help persuade Florida to send Tippett.

With a retool coming, leadership has to change - Giordano moves on as well. Boston is in need of a top 4 left handed defenceman that can eat minutes while their window to win is still narrowly open. Flames have been looking for a right handed defenceman as well, so Clifton would be a nice target. Lauko would be a tough guy to part with for the Bruins, but ultimately the need of a top left handed defenceman, and the low amount of roster spots for Lauko make him available. A decent return for Calgary who are risking Giordano walking for nothing after a season where he'll be a UFA.

Gaudreau has to be the biggest guy to go. He's been the main offensive guy on this team for years and the team just hasn't gotten it done. I see Carolina being a sneaky team here as adding a truly elite game breaking talent would put them over the top. They have a ton of good offensive talents, but adding an elite talent like Gaudreau could put them right over the top next season. Price is still a bit high, but the Flames focus on young NHL ready talent in return. Calgary also takes on Gardiner's contract in the deal to help add more in return for their star player. Gardiner could still prove to be a useful player, I feel like playing him with a responsible defensive player like Tanev could help. Calgary could look to buy out Gardiner as well (depending when this deal is made) if they wanted to give Valimaki more of a chance in the top 4, but personally I don't think he's ready yet and in a retool this team should still look to contend for a playoff spot and Gardiner can help that.

When it comes to free agency, I'd think that Calgary would look to add guys that fit Sutter's play style of big and physical. Brandon Saad would be a nice add to the top 6 with winning experience, as well Blake Coleman would be an ideal fit for Sutter's system. I think when this team is back in their normal division, they're still in a fight for a playoff spot but with some more younger assets to build around and 5 picks within the first 2 rounds of the draft next season. Would be a good way to turn things around after a highly disappointing season.

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