While technically its not, the development of younger players like Nystrom, Backlund, Keetley, Pelech, Boyd, and Ryder, speaks to the overall depth of the organization. I remember when the Flames had to share an AHL affiliate with another NHL team. Now they have a great affiliate in Quad Cities. As a lifelong Flames fan, its a great sign of the organization's growth over the last 6-8 years under General Manager D. Sutter. The Flames have restocked their shelves with some quality youth.
Will this be enough to install the new core and nucleus of the Flames roster for seasons to come, my guess is "no". It does give the team more flexibility and creates a more competitive culture in Cow Town. This is how professional hockey teams in small markets have to do it to compete. I have to give credit to the Buffalo Sabers for thier success with developing players. My hat also goes off to my Flames and their management team. Restock those shelves and see if you can get Taratukin back from Russia -- will ya!! That kid is dynamite.
A few more things. Backlund is super skillful. Not sure he makes the Flames this season, but thats not a bad thing in terms of his development. When he arrives, he'll be ready and be lights out. Wait and see. McElhinney will be Kipper's back-up this year, too. From everything I've read, he's looked good in development camp and is ready. Looking forward to seeing them and the rest of the young turks playing in Calgary.
Tori Praver
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