WA-CGY-BuyersOrSellers Calgary Flames general manager Craig Conroy has been searching [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/calgary-flames/latest-news/flames-prepared-to-sacrifice-major-asset-for-top-center-replacement] for a center in the trade market for some time. TSN insider Darren Dreger mentioned on "Insider Trading [https://www.tsn.ca/nhl/insider-trading-updates-on-potential-signings-and-trades-involving-big-name-players-1.2211295]" that the right fit must exist. However, Conroy is reportedly looking for someone age-appropriate for a team rebuilding who could play for the next three to five years. With the trade deadline approaching in two months and teams facing the reality of a playoff push or a wholesale change, names could be available that fit the Flames' needs. Unsurprisingly, the Buffalo Sabres found themselves outside the wildcard race and near the bottom of the league again in December. With another season slowly fading away, many insiders believe Dylan Cozens could be available. Two seasons ago, Cozens registered 30 goals and 68 points in 81 games. Since that year, however, his offensive performance has slipped a bit, with only 25 goals and 61 points in the last 111 games. If Conroy thinks a change of scenery is all Cozens needs, he could be a great fit. Considering he's a right-shot center, it only makes this more attractive for the Flames, who have needed one for some time. Calgary has the space to take on his hefty contract at $7.1 million per year [https://puckpedia.com/player/dylan-cozens], and with another five years on his deal, he fits the profile of what the Flames covet. He's a big ticket to bet on, but it could pay off big time. Another player who could be available is Montreal Canadiens' Kirby Dach. His deal is shorter, with only one year remaining, at a cheaper rate of $3.4 million [https://puckpedia.com/player/kirby-dach]. Interestingly, Dach is the same age (23) as Cozens. Dach was an effective offensive player in his first with Montreal (2022-23), with 38 points in 58 games. However, he has since struggled due to many injuries [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/montreal-canadiens/latest-news/the-trouble-with-the-second-line], including ACL and MCL surgery, which caused him to miss all but two games last season. Although there are no confirmed reports, two 23-year-old, right-handed NHL centers could be on the market. These are just the players the Flames need to bolster their lineup. Ultimately, it has been five months since Calgary made a trade, the longest of Conroy's tenure. The time has come for him to take a shot on either of these players and break that silence, which is fast approaching half a year. Image [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjExNDI4NzY0NzEyNzA3MjMx/thncgybanner-bookmark.png]
