Monster trade brewing in Calgary as Flames hit breaking point

The Calgary Flames’ offensive struggles have hit a breaking point on Thursday and according to insider Pierre LeBrun, general manager Craig Conroy is wasting no time trying to shake things up in a major way.

LeBrun dropped a bomb on Insider Trading, revealing just how deep the frustration runs in Calgary.

“There’s a lot of frustration with the Flames organization about their lack of scoring, and 32nd in the NHL right now, 1.5 goals a game. It’s mind boggling, and frankly, it’s not a new problem,” LeBrun said. “They were 29th in the league in scoring a year ago, so it’s a problem that continues.”

The lack of scoring seems to have pushed Conroy into action. The Flames’ GM is reportedly working the phones early, scouring the league for help and testing the trade waters long before most teams even consider making a move.

“GM Craig Conroy isn’t sitting on his hands,” LeBrun added. “He is making calls and exploring the trade market, trying to find out what exactly is available out there that could potentially help his team offensively.”

It’s not an easy time to make a deal. As LeBrun points out, most front offices aren’t ready to engage in serious trade discussions until U.S. Thanksgiving, but the Flames’ situation might force their hand. Calgary sits dead last in the NHL in scoring, and patience is wearing thin across the organization.

After the 2-1 overtime loss to the Montreal Canadiens, goalie Dustin Wolf lamented his club’s inability to score, telling reporters:

“I mean, I can’t generate offense.”

Later on Thursday night, Elliotte Friedman commented on the situation in Calgary with his take in the 32 Thoughts column on Sportsnet, reminding everyone about Nazem Kadri and the possibility of him landing on the trade block for a significant return:

“One thing about Nazem Kadri : his contract switched this year from a full no-move to a partial, 13-team no-trade.”

If Conroy does manage to pull off an early-season blockbuster, it could be the jolt this team desperately needs to get back on track. One thing’s certain: all eyes around the league are now on Calgary, and the pressure is mounting for the general manager to deliver a monster move soon.