Welcome to the new era of Calgary Flames hockey. Yesterday, a coup took place in the eyes of most of the hockey world. No, we didn't make a deal for the Oilers lottery pick, we didn't even pry the second pick from the Sabres. What we did was achieve the improbable, if not the impossible. We parlayed, what was a middling first round pick, coupled with two second round picks, for Dougie fricken Hamilton. Say what??
Yes. Dougie Hamilton is a Flame. At the ripe old age of 22 we have that elusive piece that most teams highly covet. An asset thought impossible to acquire outside of being a selection at the draft. I guess the Bruins are demonstrating how not to manage a roster in the salary cap era, that being said, thank you Peter Chiarelli/Don Sweeny—You guys are awesome!!—but I digress.
Dougie Hamilton comes to our team as an already developed player. In 2014-15, he had a career year in Boston, logging big minutes due to the absence of Zdeno Chara, and the void left by the Johnny Boychuk trade. He rose to the occasion and lived up to his draft pedigree. Guys like that do not grow on trees, and to draft a player with that kind of impact can be difficult. At the 2011 NHL entry draft, Adam Larsson was picked 5 spots ahead of Hamilton, and it can be argued that Dougie is a higher quality pick, so I think it's safe to say we won that deal.
Coming to an already successful blue line, with a Norris trophy finalist as an anchor, bodes well for Hamilton's future development. I think Dougie is a lucky guy. He comes to a team on the rise, with a Jack Adams winning coach at the helm, and a GM who looks to be on the ball when it comes to assembling a successful roster. Add all that to the fact that Calgary is an optimal Canadian city to play in,as it boasts a rabid and loyal fan base, and a media that is less inclined to being a circus sideshow. I would be surprised if Hamilton doesn't sign long term, and soon.
Overall, Friday was a day to celebrate for us Flames fans. I mean, was anyone in Calgary thinking about Connor McDavid? I know as soon as I heard of our new acquisition, every single player in the draft became a moot point in my mind. Fact is, we still have several picks left in the draft, including a second rounder. Who can complain about that? Boston fans maybe? Just look at who they left on the board after their selections—too many to mention!!!
Now on to day two. I wonder what other wheels and deals are set to occur? I hope that we can still nab a high quality pick at 53. I am confident that we will be successful with our later picks, how can anyone doubt Treliving and company after this years success? Are the Flames about to follow in the footsteps of the Chicago Blackhawks? You never know, but the organizations are starting to draw some parallels. And that is food left on the table for thought and discussion!! Thanks for the eyeballs!! Yeah BABBAYYYY!!!
Cart before horse? lol
Loud Wet Fart!
Guts! Did you get a double ban?
Dougie Hamilton is okay. Probably not a s great as some hope he is.
Guts and Stoop got booted, someone on the board spoke shit to EO.
How is one playoff appearance in God knows how long a pattern? Also, I have been banned for life, well until 2018 anyways, so good knowing you guys. Take it easy!
I just got banned until Sep 2017! Hockeybuzz is becoming pussybuzz
EO is Eks power bottom