Flames expressing interest in Ilya Kovalchuk; might target defenceman

The Calgary Flames and Edmonton Oilers, however, are two teams that also have varying degrees of interest in Kovalchuk, I’ve been told. They both have the picks to swing it and they’re both cap-strapped, which means adding Kovalckuk could make more sense to them than taking on someone else at a higher salary. Sportsnet.ca

Pierre LeBrun: …There are teams that I’ve talked to around the league that felt there was a decent chance that TJ Brodie could be had in a deal with the Calgary Flames, could upgrade with a top six forward, specifically a right shot forward. Now the sense is the Flames probably have to go all hands on deck as far as their remaining D to get through this @Mark Giordano injury. In fact, one source suggested to me today that the Flames might go out and try to add another depth defenceman to get them through this. Now again, I’m not saying Brodie cannot be moved. He’s a pending UFA, but it’s certainly I think makes it more difficult for the Flames right now and make that a top priority.

Darren Dreger: An area of concern on the Calgary blueline no question about that and some are wondering what they might do up front as well. @Sam Bennett‘s name has been out there for a long, long time. Now the Calgary Flames don’t really want to trade @Sam Bennett. They’re not actively shopping Bennett. He’s a versatile forward. However, some also wonder whether or not Sam Bennett is ready for a change. On many nights, many games for the Flames, he’s a fourth line player. He would like to prove that he can be a top six forward in the NHL.