#2 Calgary Flames
The Calgary Flames are in similar spot to the Caps on the outside looking in the playoff standings but are in a much better position. Whether they make it or miss it, adding Kuznetsov would bolster their center depth next season.
The Flames are chasing the Seattle Kraken, who are in first place in the wild card out west with a 41-25-8 mark for 90 points. They are also chasing the second place Winnipeg Jets with 87 points. The Flames sit with a 35-26-15 record with 85 points, just two behind the Jets for that second and final playoff spot.
Blake Coleman and Dillon Dube lead the centers with 18 goals this season each. But they’ve been skating on the wings of the second and third line lately. The Flames also have Nazem Kadri, a Stanley Cup champ from the Colorado Avalanche last season.
Imagining a top six of Kuzy and Kadri or vice versa would be a problem in the western conference. And Kuzy could be just as much of an asset on the third line.
I have a feeling Kuznetsov loves the fans of the Capitals. But I guess things went south between the coach or GM but I have no idea I’m not behind those closed doors.