The Calgary Flames are actively searching for a top-six center, and recent reports suggest that Montreal Canadiens center Kirby Dach could be in their sights. Flames General Manager Craig Conroy has been vocal about his desire to fill the void left by Elias Lindholm’s departure in January, and it appears he’s willing to pay the price to do so.
“When we lost Lindholm, a right-hand center in your top-six, that’s kind of something you’d want to find,” Conroy stated. “Is it an easy thing to find? Probably not.”
Could Kirby Dach Be the Answer to Calgary’s Center Ice Needs?
Conroy’s comments, coupled with insider Eric Francis’s mention of Dach as a potential target, have ignited trade speculation. Acquiring Dach wouldn’t come cheap, however. The Canadiens invested heavily in the young center, surrendering a first and a third-round pick to the Chicago Blackhawks in 2022.
This isn’t just idle chatter. Conroy has explicitly stated his willingness to part with a first-round pick for the right player, specifically a right-shot center who can be a long-term solution for the Flames. Dach, at 6’4″ and 221 pounds, certainly fits the bill physically, and at 23 years old, he aligns with Conroy’s desire for an “age-appropriate” acquisition.
Why Dach Makes Sense for Calgary
Dach’s size, age, and potential make him an attractive target for the Flames. He’s a strong skater with good puck-handling skills and a developing offensive game. While his production hasn’t quite met expectations, a change of scenery and a more prominent role in Calgary could be just what he needs to unlock his full potential.
What Would a Trade Look Like?
Given the Canadiens’ previous investment in Dach, the Flames would likely have to offer a significant package. A first-round pick is almost certainly a starting point, and additional assets, such as a prospect or a roster player, might be needed to sweeten the deal.
My Take
While Dach hasn’t yet blossomed into the superstar many projected, he possesses the tools to become a legitimate top-six center in the NHL. For the Flames, who are looking to retool rather than rebuild, acquiring a player like Dach makes a lot of sense. He fills a positional need, fits their desired age range, and has the potential to be a key piece of the puzzle for years to come. However, Conroy needs to carefully weigh the cost against the potential reward. Overpaying for Dach could set the franchise back, but if the price is right, this could be a shrewd move that accelerates Calgary’s return to contention.
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Dach is 22. Why would the Habs trade him when he is part of their rebuild? They would prefer trading their own draft capital for players in that age
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