Photo Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports
In his season-ending interview on Flames TV, Mike Cammalleri was unsure of the future, but seems happy with the direction the Calgary Flames.
Although there was no new news on the status of Cammalleri’s future with the franchise, Cammy commented, “I am far from having ruled Calgary out” in terms of resigning with the team. But, as he said, Burke had mentioned to him that it wasn’t the right time to talk about it and he then moved on to other issues.
When asked about Sean Monahan, Cammalleri playfully asked, “who?” He chuckled as he explained that the team had warned him in the dressing room that he will probably have to answer some questions about Monahan and the rookie’s progress this season, proof that this team really is a happy hockey family that discuss many things behind the scenes.
In all seriousness, Cammalleri expressed how impressed he was with Sean Monahan especially in a league where “goal scoring is such a commodity.” Cammy said he was impressed with Mony’s ability to “finish around the net” because the young player “has that touch and that feel” for scoring.
As for the veteran’s thoughts on Johnny Gaudreau and Bill Arnold, he told the reporters that the two youngsters “looked so anxious and excited” before their NHL debut so he went over to talk to them in hopes of helping them to feel comfortable among the team. When confronted with the idea that Johnny may have to get bigger to progress in his newfound NHL role, Cammy shook his head and explained that he didn’t necessarily agree with that idea. As he stated, Johnny is “quick and elusive and almost slimy out there” that it might work to his advantage without “adding 30lbs.” And Mike Cammalleri would know because he’s not exactly the biggest guy in the NHL as well.
His on-ice antics are legendary. From pointing and giving credit to fellow teammates for his goals to his knee-drop slappers, if Cammalleri leaves the Flames, they will be losing an extremely credible player and he will be tough to replace.