Pat Steinberg: Pending unrestricted free agent goaltender Mike Smith said that he’d “for sure” like to return to the Flames next season. The organization wants to win and he wants to be a part of it.
Calgary Sun: What the Calgary Flames should do this offseason?
Danny Auston: Re-signing Matthew Tkachuk should be the first move. They could look to basically run out the same lineup as they were the best team in the Western Conference during the regular season. Going a 180 route would be moving either Johnny Gaudreau or Sean Monahan if they feel they can’t win with either of those as your two best players.
Kristen Anderson: They shouldn’t overreact as their core is good. They could use another top-six forward. James Neal isn’t the answer.
Wes Gilbertson: Do nothing drastic. Find a second-line right winger. Re-start Jason Zucker trade talks? A backup goaltender could be another option.
Players who may not be back next season?
Auston: Maybe the last of TJ Brodie. They have young defensemen in Rasmus Andersson, Juuso Valimaki and Oliver Kylington. Likely wouldn’t get a huge return for him.
Anderson: Michael Frolik could be moved in a trade. A hard-working left winger whose agent, Allan Walsh, has already called out ice-time and usage.
Gilbertson: Goaltender Mike Smith could sign elsewhere. Wouldn’t be a surprised if TJ Brodie was traded. They may be able to get an ‘appealing prospect or pick.”
Cost to re-sign Matthew Tkachuk?
Auston: Unlikely that they’ll be able to re-sign him to anything under $9 million – will likely be closer to $10 million. How quickly would they be able to get a deal done? A Sam Bennett deal is also a priority and to a lesser extent Andrew Mangiapane and David Rittich.
Anderson: “Whatever it takes. Seriously.”
Gilbertson: Will likely be a seven-figure contract and not eight.