With trade deadline coming up quick, Greer’s injury a reminder of what’s at stake for Flames
But a cruel twist of fate ensured he won’t be anywhere near the ice when the Calgary Flames take on the Boston Bruins Tuesday night.
On its own, maybe that’s unremarkable. Hockey players do get hurt, and the fractured foot Greer suffered against the Columbus Blue Jackets last month is something he’ll come back from.
And if you’re Craig Conroy, you’re all too aware that Greer’s expected lengthy recovery means he won’t be a trade chip at the looming March 8 deadline. There was speculation that the Flames might be able to flip him for an asset. His injury serves as a reminder of what’s at risk every time the Flames step on the ice.
Conroy’s done well with the returns he got for Elias Lindholm, Nikita Zadorov and Tyler Toffoli, all of whom were set to become unrestricted free agents this summer. When it became clear that re-signing them was unlikely, Conroy moved them. He didn’t rush into it, but he took the deal he liked when it was offered.
Now, all eyes are on Chris Tanev and Noah Hanifin, the two Flames defencemen who could also walk for free this summer.
The Flames don’t want to lose them for nothing. Often, the returns get better the closer you get to the trade deadline.
But then you look at a guy like Greer and you remember how quickly that can all change. One bit of bad luck going into the boards and a guy is sidelined for months. His injury came on a routine play.