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Calgary Flames among those targeting Joakim Nygard |
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The Calgary Flames are in the midst of a truly spectacular season. They lead the Western Conference in wins, points, goal differential, and many of their top players are expected to be finalists for major awards.
Still, GM Brad Treliving is not getting caught resting on his laurels. He's already exploring ways to improve his team for next season and is looking at the international free agent market as a way of doing so.
The Flames are one of the teams hot after free agent winger Joakim Nygard, according to TSN's Darren Dreger.
Nygard, a 26-year-old left-shot winger, is having a strong season for Farjestads of the SHL. He sits 3rd on the team in points (35), and is leading the charge in goals (21).
He didn't just come out nowhere. Last season he finished tied for 3rd in team scoring with 34 points, and the season before he put up 29.
I don't imagine he'll come overseas and pile up the points but if he can take the top off of defenses with elite speed, and score a few goals along the way, he could be a useful bottom-6 forward.
At Nygard's age, teams only have to commit one-year on an entry-level contract so there is no risk involved. It can't hurt for the Flames to give him a look.
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