2. Kent Johnson
Kent Johnson was once one of the most exciting names in the National Hockey League, and after posting 40 points in 79 games of his rookie campaign, the expectation was that he could be a star in Columbus. Since then however, his point tallies are 16, 57 and 22, and unfortunately for the Blue Jackets, we've seen much more of the 16 and 22 point player for the team than we have the 57.
Since arriving, the team have also added the likes of Adam Fantilli, Charlie Coyle and Sean Monahan, pushing Johnson out of his natural centre position, and after ending the year in the bottom-six, it's clear that a change of scenery would be best for Johnson. It won't come cheap, as 23-year-old centres with NHL experience don't often become available, but if the Flames want to build up the middle, they're going to need to take a chance on a player like Johnson.
Verdict: Johnson has long been a name on the Flames radar, and given his lack of production, they shouldn't give up much for him, but as a former first-round pick, it's worth the risk. What are the chances it happens? 6/10
1. Matvei Michkov
Matvei Michkov is the biggest name that could be moved this summer among young players under 25, and while he's performed admirably in both of his first NHL seasons, something just hasn't clicked in Philadelphia. At just 21-years of age, Michkov already has 161 NHL games under his belt, and in that time, he's posted an impressive 46 goals and 114 points, putting him well on pace to one day be an 80-point or better player over a full 82 games.
It's unclear just what the issue is in Philadelphia, but after limited playing time in the post-season, the writing is clearly on the wall with the Flyers, with Kryshak not being the only writer to predict a trade this off-season. As a result of his production, Michkov would be the most expensive player on the list, but with the Flames having the draft capital and young players/prospects to send back, it's one they should explore.
Verdict: The Flames shouldn't mortage the future to land Michkov, but if it's an affordable deal, they should look to pair Michkov with Gridin as two young Russians for the future in Calgary. What are the chances it happens? 1/10
Add us as a preferred source on Google