The Olympic roster freeze has thawed, and with the trade deadline fast approaching, the Flames are gearing up for potential moves. One name that's been circulating is Blake Coleman.
Despite missing some games due to an upper-body injury, Coleman is back in action and ready to hit the ice again. But will he still be in Calgary come March 6th?
Coleman recently spoke to the media after returning to Calgary, describing the break as feeling more like an offseason since he spent it back home in Texas. He joked about the trainers getting tired of him, acknowledging the trade rumors with a calm demeanor. It's always refreshing to see a player being so open with the media, and Coleman seems to have accepted the uncertainty of his situation.
Interestingly, Coleman's wife and their three young children are staying in Dallas for the season, which might raise eyebrows. However, with a fourth child expected in April, staying in familiar surroundings makes sense for the family.
For teams considering a trade, Coleman presents an appealing option. He's in the fifth year of a six-year deal, offering more stability than someone on an expiring contract. If Andrew Mangiapane could fetch a second-round pick, Coleman might command similar value, possibly more if a bidding war ensues.
The Flames have one retention spot left, and while it's unlikely they'll use it on Coleman, it might serve as leverage in a potential Nazem Kadri trade. With Jacob Markstrom's contract coming off the books soon, the Flames might hold off on any Kadri moves until the summer.
General Manager Craig Conroy has some big decisions ahead. Trading veterans like Kadri and Coleman could significantly alter the team's culture, something the Flames value deeply. With defenseman Mackenzie Weegar also attracting interest, it's possible we could see a major shake-up.
As for Coleman, anything can happen. Conroy's recent contract extension shows the ownership's trust in his vision. He successfully moved Rasmus Andersson, proving he's capable of handling big tasks.
In Craig We Trust? The next few days will tell.