Calgary Flames: Figuring out Michael Stone’s Partner

Final Thoughts

While there are some options out there for the last spot in the Flames defensive core, I wouldn’t expect the answer to come from anywhere too far from home. Someone like Patrick Wiercioch does present an interesting opportunity. He’s had good results elsewhere and after an off-season he would be a cheap player to sign. But going back into the UFA pool is a one-way ticket to a log-jam in the system.

That said, Brett Kulak is a homegrown talent who has already shown he can handle limited minutes in the NHL and do well. With him being an RFA I would expect his next contract to be incredibly cheap, most likely around 1M. Frankly, it’s about time Calgary graduates a prospect they’ve had in the system and looks ready for the big show. The point of their rebuild was to build talent in the minors that could join the big club and excel. Kulak is looking like a guy that can fit this bill.

Next: Calgary Flames Re-Sign D Michael Stone

With the options available, if we’re stuck with Matt Bartkowski, a sit-in may be in order.