Flames Potential UFA Targets

Flames Potential UFA Targets

With July 1 less than a month away and guys like David Jones making 4 million per season now; could be a wild summer. 

The Flames hiring of Bob Hartley, seems to show the Flames are focused on making the playoffs this coming season. And so they should be. But is our roster good enough to make that happen?  Not with the current roster in my opinion. So let’s take a look at potential candidates for the Flames to sign.

Dennis Wideman- 29yr old from Ontario had 46 points last year playing for the Capitals. Wideman can help any teams’ power play and we all know the Flames need it. Contract wise, Wideman is likely looking for a longer deal that will allow him to stay in one location for a few years. Last year he made just under 4 million and with the UFA market this year he will likely demand more than that per season. Right handed shooter, something the Flames desperately need!

Matt Carle- the 27 year old American had a cap hit of 3.4 million the last four years and will want more than that next season. Carle has only missed two games in the last three seasons and has put up some solid numbers. But remember he played for the offensively talented Flyers. I am sure there will be plenty of teams wanting his services including the Flyers. A mobile guy who could solidify the Flames back end, with the likes of Sarich and Hannan likely not returning.

Chris Kelly- another Ontario born player who could help the Flames as a third line center and key face off man. Kelly is a gamer and has shown that he can put the puck in the net if need be. He is 31 and will be 32 in November so if the Flames do make a move on him let’s hope it is not a long term deal. His faceoff abilities would be a welcoming addition.

Ryan Smyth- yes that guy again. How many years is this now where the Flames and his name are being mentioned together? But believe it, if Smyth goes to UFA status the Flames will likely be mentioned as a likely destination. Reports indicate that Ryan and Oilers GM Tambellini are not close on a deal. We all know who he is and what kind of player he was. Now at the age of 36 and declining production is a trip South by Smyth worth it for the Flames? Iginla will likely welcome such a move and at the right price this could become reality.

P.A. Parenteau- a talented winger who could receive a massive raise this summer. Parenteau was a late bloomer and at the age of 29 is about to finally cash in. Many teams are believed to be interested in his services if he does indeed not resign with the Islanders. Parenteau’s agent has expressed his clients desire to remain in New York but still no contract has been signed. He could be that top 6 forward that Feaster will be coveting this summer. But at what price…

In conclusion I believe we will see some more ridiculous deals this summer just like last year and that could result in Feaster looking at trades to change his roster instead.