Sam Bennett the 21-year-old, first round selection of the Calgary Flames is the hot topic in trade rumors. Bennett has registered just one point this season, and the fans are restless in Calgary. Is the criticism warranted? Well, he is struggling, but it may just be a little premature. The fourth overall pick was arguably the best player in the playoffs last season for the Flames, but that success has not carried over to this season. Hopes were high that this season would be a breakout season for the young prospect, but that has not been the case.
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TSN insider Bob McKenzie mentioned that multiple teams have contacted the Flames for a potential trade. “Teams are calling the Flames and asking about Bennett, but there’s wide gap between Calgary perception of value versus teams calling,” said McKenzie.
If Bennett continues to struggle his trade value will drop, but when is a good time to pull the plug on a young hockey player that has huge upside. The Flames have not given up on Bennett, and are not desperate to trade him, and it looks as if there is not much that would get the Flames to pull the trigger on a trade. However, teams are calling and the Flames are listening to offers. So far nothing has come close to meeting GM Brad Reliving’s asking price. “Teams are calling and asking about Bennett, but there’s wide gap between Calgary perception of value versus teams calling,” continued McKenzie.
Bennett has shown signs of being a bonafide NHL goal scorer, and the Flames look to be patient and willing to wait out his struggles. It probably will not hurt his progress having Jaromir Jagr playing beside the struggling forward.
Brad Burud the owner/editor of the Inside Edge Hockey News. I am a huge fan of hockey, from youth hockey, to junior hockey, and of course professional hockey. I have played, coached, worked as statistician, and watched hockey all of my life. Hockey is not just a game, it is a lifestyle and family. The game of hockey is great! It can bring you nights of great enjoyment. It also brings nights where you feel like your team will never win. I am proud to be a journalist for the greatest game in the world. I have a degree in Business Administration, Psychology from Minot State University. I also have a Hockey General Manager and Scouting, and Sports Communications/Journalism degree from Sports Management Worldwide. I am also a member of the Sports Executives Association. Most of all I am a fan. Hockey is a huge part of my life and my families life.