rickross

It's really dissapointing, yeah and I was referencing us actually walking into a completed complex in 5 yrs. The reality is this project just became even more expensive in light of the economic conditions, the $CDN alone would kill developers on import costs. It's in the city's best interest to clean up the creosote site as its prime real estate, then actually agreeing on financing...it's going to take some time. The good thing is in the next 5yrs the Oilers new place will be old news

I think what has frustrated Nenshi is the lack of actual preparation and analytics provided mixed in with the arrogance of Ken King. Flames assumed the city would just hand over the $ considering Oilers got it done and Calgary actually needs new facilities . Eventually this thing will be built, likely not exactly as the Flames see it but compromises will be met and agreements reached. I still see this being atkeast 5 years away

I recall Burke saying a big part of the reason he hired BT was because he actively attends a ton of games at every level of play. He's not a scout but he's been known around the league to have a pulse on just about everything. Our scouting has greatly improved,I actually have faith in our scouts when it comes to drafting etc...That wasn't the case 5+ yrs ago. I believe Flames carry one of the largest scout staffs after years of being considered one of the leagues worst scouting and drafting teams. Our fortunes are starting to change and I think it was a massive overhaul they started once they committed to the rebuild.

It's hard to fault Nenshi in this case. In a way it's refreshing to see a mayor stand up to the powers that be. Of course Bettman wants a new arena..he's a businessmen and new arenas bring him more revenue. I think Nenshi is being a realist, albeit a harsh realist but in a down economy can u blame him? He just wants to see some concrete numbers and analytics before entering discussions, who wouldn't it's a 1 billion + project. If the Flames are so compelled and desperate why not put up more of their own funds?

This is what I found bizarre, he essentially has taken Higgins off the team in hopes to audition him to potential suitors? If Higgins asked for a trade then fine but if he didn't why punish him while stripping away any trade value he may have had? Especially when he's implicitly asking for younger prospects and picks..for a guy who only has one goal at that?

At one time during the Flames hunt for a GM , Jim Benning was highly sought after. I could not be happier the Flames didn't sign him as GM. After seeing his management of the Canucks, especially the bizarre manner he recently broadcast Chris Higgins being on the trade block. The guy seems delusional! He honestly things he can get a high draft pick or prospect for Chris Higgins? Think he has 1 goal on the year. Canucks are going about their rebuild with no sense of direction...and I couldn't be happier lol

Agreed. Unless we see a dramatic climb in his progression I don't ever see him making the team. It's too bad with his size he could have brought a different dynamic to our blue line.Is Ryan Huska a big upgrade over Troy Ward? It seems as though the Heat have struggled since he took the helm.