The All-Star break was anything but for Flames brass as they made two deals that opened a roster spot on the big club and added some depth on the farm. Firstly, in a surprising twist, Brendan Morrison saw his time with the Flames end after being traded to Chicago in exchange for minor-league vet defenceman Brian Connelly.
The move gives the Flames some cap room and another spot to potentially bring up certain contracts from the minor leagues (Krys Kolanos anybody?) Morrison’s injuries and lack of offensive production made his spot expendable. The Hawks will probably find use for him, albeit only as a fourth line plugger.
The Flames today made another minor trade sending John Negrin to the Winnipeg Jets in exchange for RW Akim Aliu. YOu might remember the name from the infamous fight between he and Steve Downie in the OHL (Same team) after Aliu refused to be hazed. Since then he’s bounce thru the minors unable to find a consistent game. He’ll bring size on the RW for the AHL Heat. Going the other way is John Negrin, once highly touted defensive prospect, who’s been on the decline spending time int he ECHL this year. Flames have a glut of D men so the move shouldn’t leave an unmanageable hole to fill.
The question of course is who’s next? Will some team be stupid enough to take Matt Stajan? How about Cory Sarich? Any takers?
It’s truly sad to see so many changes take place – wonder if these are for the better? May the Lord help Feaster make the right decisions.