Matthew Lombardi, the last standout for Flames signing, was signed to a one year deal worth just under 1 million. It seems Sutter has very high hopes for the the 24 year-old who played one game with the Omaha Ak-Sar-Ben Knights of the American Hockey League scoring two points but spen the rest of the season with the big boys.

Lombardi scored 26 points during the 2005-06 season with the Flames on six goals and 20 assists. Lombardi appeared in all seven playoff games vs. Anaheim posting two assists.

The Flames drafted Lombardi in the third round, 90th overall, in the 2002 Entry Draft.“I’m getting antsy now. The summer is getting long. I’m excited about getting to Calgary and getting training camp underway,” said Lombardi.

Asked about the changes to the Flames line-up, Lombardi said that’s all part of the process of improving. “There are always changes. That’s normal. They are always trying to make the team better.”

As for himself, Lombardi wants to stay healthy for the entire season, so do the fans. If pre-concussion Lombardi comes into form then he will be a great centerman for a million bucks.

The Flames drafted Lombardi in the third round, 90th overall, in the 2002 Entry Draft when they let Jerret Stoll re-enter the draft (the Flames swapped Stoll and Lombardi essentially.)