3 Moves The Calgary Flames Need To Make This Off-Season

The Calgary Flames had a very disappointing season this year. In a weak North Division, they failed to make the playoffs and had a 26-27-3 record. This also came after an off-season where they signed both Jacob Markstrom and Chris Tanev. Yet, it is clear they have more work to do this off-season if they hope to become competitive again.

Here are three moves that they should consider making.

Extend Johnny Gaudreau OR Trade Him: The Flames are talking to Gaudreau about an extension, which is entirely understandable. Even though he has yet to replicate his 99 point 2018-19 season, he is still one of their best forwards. However, if Gaudreau ends up being against returning to the team, a trade should be in order. They cannot risk losing him for nothing next off-season through free agency, especially with him being such a skilled player.

Add At Least One Top-Six Winger: The Flames need more skill upfront to become a playoff team again. This is still true even if they extend Gaudreau. This free agency market is full of solid wingers on both sides, so they do have a lot to work with. They have a decent amount of cap space as well, so they do have the ability to be aggressive. It also is nice that their important players are all locked up for at least this season, too. Thus, they can spend as they wish.

Sign Top-Six Defensemen: The Flames will need to add at least one bottom-pair defenseman this off-season as well. Although this is not the biggest of moves, they need more depth when it comes to their blueline. Nikita Nesterov recently signed with CSKA Moskva of the KHL. Michael Stone is also a pending UFA and could be on his way out. The market has some pretty good bottom-pair options, such as Zach Bogosian and Ian Cole, so the Flames should have no issues fixing this need.