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The Calgary Flames recently had two players, Sven Baertschi and Reto Berra, invited to the Swiss' National camp meetings.
Here are some notes on that as well as some other Flames topics:
- I wasn't the least bit surprised to see Baertschi invited to Swiss' camp. He's definitely a player who has shown a lot of promise and potential and, while Switzerland's hockey program is improving significantly year by year, I think he's pretty much a lock for a top-9 spot on the team.
If he makes the team, it'll surely be a good experience for him being given big minutes against some of the top competition in the world.
- Berra being invited to their camp isn't exactly a surprise, either. Beyond Jonas Hiller, the Swiss are somewhat shallow in goal. Given what Berra was able to accomplish during the Swiss' Silver Medal run in the World Championships this year, he's deserving of an invite. I think it will be between veteran Martin Gerber and Berra for the backup spot on Swiss' Olympic team and ultimately I expect Berra to take that spot, especially if he makes the Flames and plays well during his starts in the NHL.
- Mikael Backlund wasn't invited to Sweden's Olympic camp, however, that doesn't mean he can't or won't make the roster. To my count there are 11 or 12 locks at forward for Sweden, which means there are 2-3 available forward spots for the taking. Backlund made some big strides as a player last season with Calgary and if he starts off hot, no pun intended, he will play himself at least into the conversation for a spot on the roster. It's a big season for Backlund in more than one way, to say the least.
- A lot of people have asked me what the holdup with T.J. Brodie contract talks are. I can't say with 100% certainty, but I think the biggest issue separating the two sides from an extension is term. Flames GM Jay Feaster has been adamant about a short-term extension, likely for two years, while it sounds like Brodie and his camp are looking for a three-year deal or longer. Given the money Brodie will ultimately get, I think a three or four year deal would be more beneficial to the Flames given his steady progression, but what do I know?
Brodie was only the best defenseman on the team last season.
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How good is T.J. Brodie?
What is Mike Cammalleri's trade value?
A look at how Calgary should utilize Sean Monahan.
A look at how the Flames 3 1st round picks performed in the CHL last season.
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