Evan Rodrigues likely headed to a Western Conference team

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Joshua Deeds
August 26, 2022 (9:09)

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On today's 32 Thoughts Podcast, Sportsnet's, Elliotte Friedman shared that he thinks that the Calgary Flames might make another move for another depth forward.

Since the surprise signing of Phil Kessel in Vegas occurred yesterday, they lost a chance at a veteran who could have provided a character presence in the locker room and a benefit on the ice.

However, of the remaining free agents left after Kessel, Kadri, Tkachuk, Huberdeau, and the depth signing of the New York Islanders, the options are limited.

A great option, which Friedman also thinks the Flames are in on, is former Pittsburgh Penguins Center, Evan Rodrigues. Ron Hextall previously extended the now UFA until the end of the 2021-2022 season.

He's an affordable option, with his last contract being a 1 year, $ 1 million AAV for the Penguins, which was ridiculously valuable for Rodrigues who showed his potential after 3 years with the team.

Friedman also did mention that he believes the Flames expressed some interest in Kessel, and with him no longer available, he expects Treliving to really focus in on Rodrigues. Whether or not the $2.1 million they have in cap space right now is enough to bring him in remains to be seen, but it is worth mentioning again that more space can and likely will be opened up once they move a defenseman.

Rodrigues would be able to continue his progression as a Center, playing alongside such skilled players, as Andrew Mangiapane, Tyler Toffoli, and Jonathan Huberdeau as well.