We recently reported the buzz that the Calgary Flames might be considering a move that would include forward Johnny Gaudreau heading out of Calgary in a move that would shake things up. We quoted an article from
Darren Haynes of The Athletic entitled, ‘Is it time for the Flames to consider trading Johnny Gaudreau?’ He gave a number of solid arguments that the Flames should seriously consider it.
We also cited Eric Francis of Sportsnet who chimed in and said he doesn’t feel the team will do anything this season, but next summer if things still look dreary.
Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman seems to agree with Francis in his latest 31 Thoughts column.
Friedman noted reports that it would be a big surprise if the Calgary Flames traded Gaudreau despite some speculation the organization is considering it. He doesn’t believe the Flames want to make any rash moves. He did say reports of the Flames looking to shake things up are accurate but that could mean trading players like Mark Jankowski or Michael Frolik.
Friedman also doesn’t believe that despite the Flames’ recent struggles, that head coach Bill Peters is in jeopardy of getting fired or that his job is on the hot seat yet.
Remember, this is a franchise player who despite arguments that he’s too small or isn’t worth his salary, sell tickets, helps the team win and offers more than just flashes of brilliance. The Flames better be sure they want to move him if they go down this road. It’s not often teams who trade players like this and don’t get the perfect return live it down.
Related: NHL Rumor: Calgary Flames to Move Johnny Gaudreau?
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