Flames GM Gives Update On Timeline For Top Free Agent

CALGARY, CANADA - OCTOBER 18: Elias Lindholm #28 of the Calgary Flames in action against the Vegas Golden Knights during an NHL game at Scotiabank Saddledome on October 18, 2022 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Derek Leung/Getty Images)
CALGARY, CANADA - OCTOBER 18: Elias Lindholm #28 of the Calgary Flames in action against the Vegas Golden Knights during an NHL game at Scotiabank Saddledome on October 18, 2022 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Derek Leung/Getty Images)

There’s been plenty happening this off-season for the Calgary Flames, and while there’s so much still to accomplish, it appears that the remainder of their moves will be dictated by Elias Lindholm, who is reportedly weighing up a long-term, very expensive deal from Calgary. This has been reported for weeks now, with the organization and fans waiting patiently for an answer, and while they see the need for urgency, it appears that new General Manager Craig Conroy is in no such rush.

When asked about the situation surrounding Lindholm at the current Flames development camp, Conroy reiterated that there is no timeline on a decision, making it seem more and more likely that Calgary will head into training camp with their top line centre unsigned, despite what we all remember happening 12 months ago.

Unsurprisingly, Lindholm’s production took a step back a season ago given the way the top line was rotated and constantly changed throughout the year, but even so, he managed 22 goals and 42 assists, and if he can find a consistent pairing with Jonathan Huberdeau and a right winger (Sharangovich, Mangiapane, Coronato come to mind), he could get back to his best form in 2023-24.

Whatever the outcome, it may be best for the Flames if something gets done soon, as this is a team that wants to have a young, up and coming team set by the time training camp rolls around, but unfortunately for those that are looking at Calgary to embrace a rebuild, it’s looking increasingly less likely.

So what do you think Flames fans? Should Calgary be forcing Lindholm’s hand? Does this make the Flames look bad in the eyes of other teams? What will this roster look like come October? As always, let us know all your thoughts in the comments below.