I had to re-read this article on the Calgary Sun, Flames to move Iginla? Are you freaking serious? The captain of the franchise and the most recognizable name on the roster, how can Flames brass ever consider this? Then I started to think about things and sadly it does make sense. He’s 35, obviously on the downside of his career, but still is a big enough cog / name to land prime young talent and the Flames need talent in a big way.
Iginla has been the poster boy for the Flames since he was a 19 year old in the 1996-97 season. For years you could count on him being at or near the top of the points race. He hasn’t missed a game in nearly four and a half years. He has two Richard trophies, a Ross trophy, and a Ted Lindsay Trophy. With his near entry into the 500 goals / 500 assists club I think you have to consider him a first ballot Hall of Fame member.
I’m thinking he’s going to one of the top 8 teams right now. I’m thinking Detroit or Philadelphia make the most sense for him. Although other intriguing moves to the Blackhawks, Stars (that would be a slap in the face to Flames fans since they lost the cup to the Stars), Kings or gasp the Canucks. Anywhere he goes he is top line material and could make the difference during the playoff push.
His autographed cards on eBay run the gambit, anywhere from $10 – $50 for most. Deals can be had though as a few went for $5 or less recently. Where ever he ends up I hope he gets a shot at the cup. We don’t hear much about him down here in the South, but I can’t think of another player out there now that deserves another shot at the cup more than Iggy.
Trade Iginla now….before his stock drops even more.
The Flames didn’t lose the Cup to the Stars, they lost to Montreal in the 80′s and Tampa Bay in the 2000′s. Iginla was originally drafted by Dallas and sent to the Flames for Joe Nieuwendyk.
There’s been talk about trading Jarome for years. Happens whenever the Flames lose (and they’ve been doing that in spades of recent).