Tkachuk deal has carries risks and rewards for Flames and Panthers

The summer blockbuster trade will be intriguing to watch in the short-term, but could have some very serious long-term ramifications for both teams

Let’s just all agree that Calgary Flames GM Brad Treliving and Florida Panthers’ counterpart Bill Zito have stomachs of steel. And stones to match. With the blockbuster Matthew Tkachuk deal, the Flames dealt away a 24-year-old, MVP caliber, 100-point winger whom they know was definitely not going to sign with them beyond this season. And in return, they received a 29-year-old, MVP caliber, 100-point winger and a 28-year-old top-four defenseman who may or may not sign with them beyond this season, plus a mid-range prospect and a first-round pick in 2025.

You’ll excuse this corner if it doesn’t join the chorus of observers who think Treliving should have worn a mask in his negotiations with Bill Zito. Given the fact he had almost no leverage and was put in an untenable position, Treliving indeed did very well to get the haul he received. But if it turns out the Flames can’t re-sign either Huberdeau or Weegar beyond next season, there’s a chance this trade could have nothing more than a one-year return. And having just lived through the ordeal that was Johnny Gaudreau, how palatable is it for the Flames to do it all over again, this time with two players they gave up for a potential franchise talent?

At the very least, the deal is fraught with uncertainty on both sides.