Calgary Flames Sign Avangard Omsk Center Roman Cervenka
By Cait Platt
In a shocking move, the Calgary Flames signed Roman Cervenka, a center from the KHL’s Avangard Omsk.
The 26 year old centerman signed a one year deal with the Flames for $3,775,000. In his time with Omsk (2 seasons) he managed to score 54 goals, land 46 assists, for a total of 100 points. Will this talent translate from the KHL to the NHL? Will Cervenka be able to navigate the smaller ice of the NHL and maintain the high level of activity? Only time will tell at this point.
As for the future of the team, there are many question marks next to Olli Jokinen for next season. Is it safe to assume this means the negotiations for his contract went south? Or does it put him on notice? This does give the Flames the option to hold out if his terms are not to their liking. There’s no struggling to find his replacement at the last minute, Jokinen has gone from irreplaceable to the second (or even third) best option. Jokinen has come up clutch many times, but for his price, he should be producing more than 23 goals and 38 assists a season.
In addition to Joks, Mikael Backlund is in danger of being replaced by Cervenka.
Who ever is replaced by Cervenka, it is a clear sign Jay Feaster is moving forward with a team rebuild.
Go Flames Go!