Could the Calgary Flames Bring Back Mark Giordano?

Speculation has percolated over whether the Calgary Flames will attempt to bring back Mark Giordano since the Seattle Kraken chose him in last summer's expansion draft. The possibility was raised last week by two Flames pundits during their predictions for the team entering 2022.

Sportsnet's Eric Francis suggested the Flames need an experienced puck-moving defenseman like Giordano. TSN's Salim Valji echoed that sentiment, pointing out the 38-year-old's skill set and ties to Calgary make him “an ideal fit.”

Landing Giordano, however, is another matter. While it's expected the Kraken will shop the pending free-agent blueliner by the March 21 trade deadline, there's no guarantee he'll wind up with the Flames.

Francis noted that fitting Giordano's $6.75-million cap hit within the Flames limited salary-cap structure will be challenging. His 19-team trade list could be a sticking point, though it's probably safe to assume Calgary would be among his preferred trade destinations.

The Kraken will also seek a decent return for Giordano. Francis reminded us their asking price from the Flames to avoid taking the blueliner in the expansion draft was a first-round pick and either a second or third-rounder.

Kraken general manager Ron Francis could maintain that price for the Flames but it's doubtful Calgary GM Brad Treliving will pay that much. Even if Francis seeks a lower return, he could get a better offer from another playoff contender on Giordano's list.

There's also no certainty the Kraken will trade Giordano. He could enjoy playing and living in Seattle so much that the two sides discuss a contract extension before the trade deadline.