The Calgary Flames are turning things around, and what better time to reclaim their greatest captain of all time Jarome Iginla
The Calgary Flames are looking much stronger after giving the goaltending reigns to Chad Johnson. Brian Elliott was simply not performing, and despite a great showing in his previous start, they continue to ride the hot hand in net.
The Flames already have a talented defensive group, and their star forwards are finally showing signs of life. They are very good down the middle with Sam Bennett, Sean Monahan, Mikael Backlund, and Matt Stajan., but there is room for improvement down the wing.
Enter Jarome Iginla.
While this could be a Cinderella story for Flames fans, and maybe even Iginla, the thought of bringing back their veteran captain as they push for the playoffs makes sense.
Potential of a renewed Iginla-Flames Partnership
As it stands, Iginla has just three goals and three assists in 26 games with the Avalanche. But the more important stat is his minus-3 rating, on a team with the lowest goal differential at minus-28. He has always been a reliable power forward, and he has maintained that role despite a lack of consistent offensive production.
Iginla is in need of a major rekindling, and going back to Calgary could be the best thing for him. He has a historic reputation with the city and fans.
More importantly, Iginla has carried the Flames through their most successful times over the last 20 years. If not for the potential production he brings to the table, the thought of him retiring as a Flame is all too perfect.
Iginla recently stated that he would waive his no-trade clause to go to a contender, and the Flames are looking like a fringe candidate heading into the new year. His defensive presence would be a welcomed addition to such a young squad. If he can find his scoring touch again, that would be even better for the Flames.
Cap Issues A Major Hindrance
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Looking at both the Avalanche and Flames’ financial situation, Iginla’s $5.33 million for the rest of the year could be a problem. The Flames are deadlocked on the cap after signing their young forwards, but could shed a bit if players like Deryk Engelland or Matt Stajan are involved. Stajan loves Calgary, but Bouma’s history of playing center could come in handy if he is the odd man out.
The Avalanche could retain salary and opt for depth players or young talent. Based on Iginla’s lack of performance and large contract, the Avalanche should be willing to part ways with the struggling veteran. They have plenty of talent up front but need a huge boost on the blue line.
Based on the Calgary Flames current success, they will not want to shake up too much of their current roster.
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The most realistic option seems to be the retained salary route. Iginla’s contract ends this year, and the Flames can restructure a new deal if he plays another season. They currently have several young players, and the addition of a veteran like Iginla could be the perfect fit.
Iginla has moved around quite a bit, but seeing him end it all in Calgary would be perfect. If there is a chance for a trade, hopefully the Flames and Avalanche can make it happen.