Matthew Tkachuk Leaving the Calgary Flames

The Calgary Flames were dealt a serious blow as forward Matthew Tkachuk has confirmed with management he is not interested in signing a long-term contract to stick around Calgary. From all accounts, a trade is on the way.

BREAKING: Matthew Tkachuk tells Flames he won't re-sign long-term, trade likely: Sources.

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Tkachuk is a restricted free agent and is set to hit the open market next summer. The Flames of course, have already lost Johnny Gaudreau as it appears their core is crumbling at the seams. A hard-nosed coach and not meeting expectations can have lasting effects across a roster.

Tkachuk is one of the best power forwards in the game and is developing into a serious game changer. He finished last season with 104 points in 82 games and his 42 goals were also a career high. At just 24 years old the sky is the limit for Tkachuk and now Calgary gets to work to move him at some point this summer.

The St Louis Blues are apparently Tkachuk's preferred destination, however expect to see some teams take a flyer on him for one season and likely pay a steep price to do so. This news really sucks for Flames fans who have been through an emotional roller coaster this summer. It appears the ride is far from over.

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