I think we’re at the point in Silly Season where all we can do is laugh. The offseason has been pretty tame and almost underwhelming. Maybe the general managers are trying to see how things pan out with the recent cap increase, or maybe they were feeling a little greedy with potential offers. Either way, armchair general managers have kept us plenty entertained. We’ve got some overpays, head scratchers, and of course, sure, what the hecks on today’s docket. 

I can’t lie. When I saw this, I just kind of stared at it. The Buffalo Sabres are doing far too much here for Ryan Lomberg. Truly, a fourth or fifth round pick would suffice. Even if the Calgary Flames move on from the forward, there isn’t a need for the Sabres to send four players back. 

Verdict: No, thank you. Please give up a pick or two instead. 

My initial reaction to any trade involving Yegor Sharangovich is an immediate yes. I didn’t even look at the return and just said, “Yup, this works.” Well, thankfully, I am not in charge of making real decisions. Owen Beck is a 20-year-old right-shot centre. Please and thank you. 

I don’t think the Flames should take a risk on Kirby Dach simply because they already have Connor Zary who has struggled with injuries. Again, how many forwards does this team need? 

Verdict: Sure. Mike Matheson’s contract is up at the end of the season. So, if the Flames have to grin and bear it, so be it. I think there is a world where the Flames can have a successful return with Andersson. 

Here’s a fun fact for you! Justin Poirier is Calgary Wranglers defenceman Jeremie Poirier’s younger brother. It would be neat to see them in the same organization. 

Any deal where the Flames are getting a first-round pick is almost always an immediate yes for me. The 2026 draft is set to be another deep draft class. Plus, the more first-round picks, the better. Bradley Nadeau is a 20-year-old right-shot centre/right winger in year two of his entry-level contract. I don’t think acquiring him would hurt anyone. I think there’s an upside to this trade, rather than feeling like you’re settling for a Noah Hanifin-esque trade.

Verdict: Go for it.

Mikael Backlund has made it pretty clear he isn’t interested in moving. He wants to be a Calgary Flame for life. The Flames also do not need another forward, especially one over 26. Thank you, next. 

Verdict: No.

I think the streets of Calgary would flood with fans as if the Flames had just punched their ticket to the Stanley Cup Final. Another Iginla in Calgary? The pressure would be on, but I do think Tij Iginla would handle it. He’s 19 years old and would be a more-than-great addition to the Flames’ centre depth they’re working on building. 

Verdict: A hundred times over, yes.

Related