Fixing the team by bringing him back

Team: 2022-23 Calgary Flames

Initial Creation Date: Jan. 26, 2023

Published: Jan. 26, 2023

Salary Cap Mode: Basic

People often point to the losses of Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew Tkachuk as the main reason for the Flames' struggles this season, but the reality is that the team's struggles go much deeper than just those two players. While Gaudreau and Tkachuk were undoubtedly talented players and their absence has certainly been felt, the team's issues extend well beyond just those two players. It lies on the back end.

The Calgary Flames had a defensive season to remember last year, boasting the best 5v5 goals against/60 minutes in the league. But this year, they're struggling to replicate that success, currently sitting at 15th in the same stat. The only difference? The departure of defenseman Erik Gudbranson.

Gudbranson may not be the flashiest player on the ice, but his size, experience, and leadership make him a valuable asset to any team. At 6'5" and 216lbs, he's a force to be reckoned with in front of the net and on the boards. He's also a seasoned veteran, with over 500 games of NHL experience under his belt.

But perhaps most importantly, Gudbranson is the type of player that Sutter likes to have on his team. He's a physical enforcer and a stay-at-home defenseman who can clear the front of the net and protect his goaltender. Him and Milan Lucic give the Flames the most intimidating enforcer duos in league history.

Of course, trading a first-round pick for Gudbranson would be a significant move, but it's one that could pay off big for the Flames. It's not every day that a team has the opportunity to acquire a player who can make such a substantial impact on the defensive end. The Flames should pull the trigger and bring Gudbranson back to Calgary where he belongs.