On the Calgary Flames …
John Shannon: Gary Bettman on the arena talks between the Flames and the city of Calgary.
“I think there’s no bridge to build over this gap for a whole host of reasons and the dynamics of the two cities (Ottawa and Calgary) are completely different and so I think part of the reason that the Flames have stopped pursuing a new building in Calgary is they don’t see any Prospect of making a deal for a new building on terms that makes sense and based on my experience up there I understand why they’re taking that position.”
On the Edmonton Oilers and Ottawa Senators …
Chris Nichols of FanRag Sports: Elliotte Friedman on 630 CHED was asked about the Edmonton Oilers interest in Ottawa Senators forward Mike Hoffman.
“But my sense is unless something changes it wasn’t going anywhere. I just don’t think there’s a match. I think one of the problems is that Ottawa is looking for prospects and picks, or young players at the NHL level already, and I don’t know if you have what they want.
“First of all, you guys can’t be trading your first-rounder, unless you’re going to be able to protect it. If you make the playoffs, you don’t want your first-rounder to be in the lottery anywhere. A second-rounder, where it stands right now, is going to be a high second-round pick unless you guys keep going, and then it moves down somewhere.”
“But if I was Peter Chiarelli I’d be nervous about that kind of stuff. I wouldn’t trade my first-rounder right now, at least until I knew for sure we were going to be a playoff team. But the fact is that I just don’t think you have the combination of picks and prospects they’re looking for.”
Host Bob Stauffer wondered if a B-grade prospect and a second round pick for Hoffman would be enough. Friedman doesn’t think so.”
Friedman doesn’t think the Senators are interested in trading Erik Karlsson and Mark Stone.
Hoffman has two years left on his contract. A B-level prospect and a first-round pick in the 11-20 range might get you in the conversation with the Senators.
“I have visions in my head – I just imagine Hoffman’s shot with McDavid’s ability. It’s phenomenal to think about. But like I said: Right now, it doesn’t sound like it’s a match.”