Listen to “Flames Unfiltered – Episode 207 – Wolf Contract and Offseason Talk” on Spreaker.
— EPISODE 207 —
The latest summer edition of “Flames Unfiltered” with Brad Burud and Kyle Lewis is packed with in-depth discussions on Calgary Flames news, contract updates, and insightful debates on the coming NHL season. This episode dives into the details of Dustin Wolf’s newly signed contract, providing fans with essential updates on his professional journey and future in the NHL. With a relaxed yet stimulating conversation style, Burud and Lewis cover various player signings, upcoming preseason expectations, and the unpredictable twists of hockey trades.
In this episode, Brad and Kyle also tackle the dynamic changes in the Calgary Flames roster. They offer a critical look at how these transformations might shape the team’s future and discuss the potential impacts of recent trades in the broader NHL context. With a special focus on the Pacific Division shakeups, insights on emerging players, and an intriguing segment on off-ice issues, this episode ensures that Flames fans and hockey enthusiasts are well-informed and entertained. The hosts also share their perspectives on significant changes around the league, such as the St. Louis Blues’ aggressive offer sheets and the bold moves by the Edmonton Oilers.
Dustin Wolf Contract Analysis: A breakdown of Dustin Wolf’s two-year contract and its implications for the Calgary Flames’ goaltending future.
Roster Changes and Prospects: Discussion on the significant roster changes and potential prospects for the upcoming season, including the high expectations from new players and the challenges faced by veterans.
Flames’ Trade and Contract Strategies: Examination of recent Flames trade deals and contract negotiations, shedding light on the strategic direction of the team.
NHL League-wide Moves: Analysis of notable NHL trades and offer sheets, particularly focusing on the impacts on the Pacific Division and rival teams.
Ethical Considerations in Hockey: Insight into the personal decisions of players like Martin Pospisil and their broader implications within the context of politics and sports.
Brad Burud on the upcoming season: “We’re going to run a full schedule next year all the way through the offseason, everything. We’re going to have a bunch of different Flames episodes to talk about.”
Kyle Lewis on roster dynamics: “But the good thing about the summertime when it’s relatively slow is that things pile up that we get to talk about.”
Brad Burud discussing Dustin Wolf: “Dustin Wolf, two-year extension, 850 a year… This is honestly exactly what I expected.”
Kyle Lewis on player trades: “Doug Armstrong was pretty frank in his assessment of why he did it or his feelings about doing it, I should say. And good for him.”
Don’t miss out on the comprehensive analysis and the updates from the hockey world in this episode of “Flames Unfiltered”. Stay tuned for more engaging content as Brad Burud and Kyle Lewis continue to bring you the most insightful and unfiltered commentary on the Calgary Flames and the NHL.
As the NHL offseason winds down, anticipation for the upcoming season is palpable. Hockey aficionados Brad Burud and Kyle Lewis from the Flames Unfiltered Podcast recently shared their candid thoughts on the Calgary Flames’ outlook, covering everything from player contracts to inter-conference trades. This article delves into the main themes from their discussion, offering a glimpse into what fans can expect as we approach the 2024-25 season.
Dustin Wolf: Future in the Crease
The recent two-year extension of Dustin Wolf at $850k per year was a major talking point for Burud and Lewis. As Kyle Lewis noted, “This is the first real opportunity [Dustin Wolf] will have to claim the number one spot.” Brad Burud shared his expectations, hoping for a .9 or higher save percentage to solidify Wolf’s position as a future cornerstone.
Dustin Wolf, at just 23 years old, has only 17 NHL games under his belt. Both analysts agreed that while Wolf shows promise, the Flames must tread carefully to avoid burning him out early. Brad Burud emphasized, “I think the biggest thing is, I think we need to see a comfort factor,” and with the protective two-way deal, the Flames can strategically navigate Wolf’s development.
Assessing Other Young Prospects
The discussion also extended to the future of Adam Klapka and Yan Kuznetsov, who both signed one-year deals for $775k. Lewis remarked, “Kuznetsov is going to get a long look on D,” highlighting the upcoming opportunities for these young players to make an impression. The potential of these prospects adds depth and versatility to a Flames lineup eager for rejuvenation.
The Ripple Effect of Oliver Kylington’s Departure
The decision of Oliver Kylington to sign with Colorado at $1.05 million for one year sparked a detailed discussion. Kyle Lewis reflected on the implications of his move: “Great opportunity for him to play some skilled players,” yet leaving an open spot on Calgary’s defensive line-up. This situation opens the door for other prospects like Jeremy Poirier to prove their worth. As Burud succinctly put it, “I think we’ve been really good at Draft and Development”—an optimistic nod towards a brighter future.
Blockbuster Moves Across the League
The conversation naturally drifted to the league-wide maneuvering, with Lewis surprised at some of the recent trades, like the one involving Cody Ceci moving from Edmonton to San Jose. Burud expressed frustration over this, stating, “You do not give a division rival a hand-off,” highlighting the strategic errors committed by rival teams that potentially benefit Calgary.
Additionally, the offer sheet saga between St. Louis and Edmonton was another focal point. As Burud aptly noted, “St. Louis called Edmonton out on their cap hell,” exemplifying the aggressive tactics employed in the Western Conference. Such moves exemplify how the Flames need to be both vigilant and opportunistic, making calculated decisions in response to the fluid dynamics of team rosters across the league.
Procrastination in Contract Finalizations
Several key players haven’t secured their contracts yet, notably Jakob Pelletier, Cole Schwindt, and Ilya Solovyov. Lewis foresaw Pelletier’s potential but acknowledged the uncertainties surrounding his injury: “He basically lost a season of his development.” There’s a shared sentiment between both hosts that Pelletier has much to prove this season.
Melissa Radke’s article in The Athletic broke down public vs. fanbase perception of the Flames’ offseason moves. This led Lewis to reflect on the roster’s overall outlook, humorously noting, “These sound like presidential polls.” The disparity in perceptions from public to fanbase reveals the complexity and controversy around the current state of the Flames’ roster.
The Implications of Martin Pospisil’s National Team Dilemma
Martin Pospisil’s decision to refrain from playing for the national team due to political convictions stirred a revealing exploration into the intersection of politics and sports. Burud argued for understanding and respect of personal choices, saying, “You gotta stick to your heart and your beliefs in life.” This is a reminder of the numerous off-ice aspects pro athletes contend with, affecting team decisions and public reception.
With a brand new season on the horizon, the Flames’ roster undergoes significant scrutiny and anticipation. Both Burud and Lewis articulated how this season’s varied uncertainties, from player performance to contract finalizations, create a landscape of high stakes and possibilities.
The narrative around Dustin Wolf, for instance, speaks to a broader need for patience and strategic development within the Flames organization. Echoing Brad Burud’s sentiment, “The biggest thing is, I think we need to see a comfort factor,” it’s clear that the team is in a phase of careful assessment and calculated risk-taking.
Furthermore, significant trades and moves, such as the departures of Shillington and the implications of the offer sheets involving Edmonton, highlight the ever-shifting dynamics within the NHL that Calgary must navigate with prudence. It underlines how each decision can have rippling effects throughout the team and its standing within the league.
Equally fundamental is the emphasis on the impending developments for other young prospects and the handling of remaining unsigned contracts. Whether it’s Jakob Pelletier’s comeback post-injury or new trades potentially shaking up the lineup as the season proceeds, the Flames are at a crucial juncture.
As the new season beckons, the Flames’ journey is one defined by uncertainty but also underpinned by cautious optimism and potential. The Flames Unfiltered Podcast offers a candid and layered understanding of these components, pointing towards a year filled with suspense, growth, and significant learning curves.
Fans and analysts alike will be monitoring closely, attuned to every shift and development, making every game not just a competition but a chapter in the unfolding saga of the Calgary Flames.
Flames Unfiltered features two passionate and opinionated hosts. Brad Burud has been with the show since the beginning and was the creator of the show. A Flames fan since 1986 he brings the old school approach to the show. As a Theoren Fleury and Mikka Kiprusoff fan he longs for the playoff runs he watched decades ago. Kyle Lewis joined the show for the start of season four. A Flames fan since the 90’s, Kyle is a huge collector of Calgary game-worn jerseys. Jarome Iginla was the hero for the Flames when Kyle started this journey and Iginla will always be a favorite. Kyle hopes this year’s version of the Flames can bring him the happiness he felt when Gelinas scored the overtime game winner over Detroit. Thanks for joining us. Sit back and enjoy some Flames hockey talk.
FLAMES UNFILTERED EPISODE 206|SEASON 5 Kylington Surprise Contract Fail Listen to “Flames Unfiltered – Episode 206 – Kylington Surprise Contract Fail” on Spreaker. — EPISODE 206 — In this episode […]
