Pre-Season Battles to Watch
The winner in this battle of defencemen gets a spot on the second line with TJ Brodie. Whoever finishes 2nd get to play limited minutes with Derek Engelland. For the unfortunate 3rd place player, they get to spend the season watching from the press box. Smid is looking from the outside in, with Wideman likely winning this battle. Jokipakka could definitely move up to the second pairing with Brodie, as their similar play-styles could prove to beneficial. Wideman is slowing down, which could cause him to miss out on minutes, however that seems unlikely.
Backlund vs Bennett
The battle between these 2 centres isn't for a roster spot, it's for the chance to play good minutes between Alex Chiasson and Troy Brower. Backlund has spent a ton of time playing second fiddle to the main leaders of the flames, while Bennett provides a young high-upside player. It's a real toss up between the two. Many pundits figure Bennett to have the advantage, however, seeing Chiasson and Brower's play-styles throughout the pre-season could give Backlund the spot.
Tkachuk vs Vey vs Ferland
This could very be the most intriguing battle this year. Tkachuk could replace Ferland and score at a much higher rate. Vey has more skill than Ferland but has never played wing. Ferland can't score, and doesn't have a knack for showing up in games other than the playoffs but has the most experience of all the candidates. Ferland has proved he could score in the WHL, he just hasn't figured it out in the NHL. Gus Gulutzan has said that Ferland will play 2 games this preseason, Vey will get 3 and Tkachuk 1. That gives the advantage to Ferland and Vey. Ferland needs a good 2 first games, as the fact Vey has 3 games to prove himself points to more faith in Vey. Tkachuk has stated he has a desire to play in the NHL right away, but gets that there is a process to follow.
The Flames preseason is looking quite promising, as is the season. It should be entertaining hockey, regardless of the fact it has no implications on the standings. Here is the Flames schedule for the Pre-Season:
09/25/16: Vs. Edmonton
09/26/16: @ Anaheim
10/01/16: @ Vancouver
10/03/16: @ Arizona
10/05/16: Vs. Los Angeles
10/07/16: Vs. San Jose