Whether you support the idea of the Calgary Flames intentionally losing to secure a better draft pick or you prefer them to continue playing to win, it’s clear that the team won’t be making the playoffs in the 2023-24 season. The most strategic move at this point is to aim for the best possible draft position. Barring an unprecedented stroke of luck in the draft lottery, the Flames are likely to pick in the 7-10 range.
With eight games remaining in the season, Calgary currently holds the 8th worst record in the NHL. Four of their remaining games are against playoff-bound teams, while the other four are against lower-ranked teams. For those who support the idea of losing to improve draft position, these next eight games are crucial for the Flames to increase their odds of securing a top-five draft pick. Given the Flames’ history, this could mean performing well against tough opponents and struggling against lower-ranked teams.
Here is a breakdown of their remaining schedule:
**Road Games:**
– @ Winnipeg
– @ San Jose
– @ Los Angeles
– @ Anaheim
– @ Vancouver
**Home Games:**
– vs. Edmonton
– vs. Arizona
– vs. San Jose
While this analysis might seem based on a small sample size, these upcoming eight games could significantly impact the Flames’ draft position. It could mean the difference between landing a top player in the draft or being left with limited options and having to settle for the best player available in the 10-12 range. While losing may not sit well with Flames fans, it could be a necessary step in the team’s rebuilding process.
As for the chances of the Flames moving up in the draft, they currently have the eighth worst record in the NHL with 73 points, with both the Ottawa Senators and Montreal Canadiens close behind with 70 points. While no team actively seeks to lose, the Senators and Canadiens have been performing well recently, making it crucial for the Flames to prioritize their draft position by potentially sacrificing wins in these final games.
In conclusion, the Flames have the opportunity to target several promising players in the upcoming draft, but to maximize their options and potential trade value, losing may be the most strategic choice. While it may be difficult for fans to accept, these next eight games could shape the Flames’ trajectory for years to come, and prioritizing draft position over wins could ultimately benefit the team in the long run.
