Veteran forward Brad Richardson has a home for the season, signing on with the Calgary Flames.
Bringing in Brad 💪
The #Flames have signed Brad Richardson to a one-year contract: https://t.co/FDV9Q7VvVO pic.twitter.com/4y0606ssEb
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) September 8, 2021
Richardson to Calgary
The 36-year old Brad Richardson is joining his sixth NHL team as the Flames are leaning on age to get them into the playoffs. Richardson does bring a Stanley Cup ring with him, won with the Los Angeles Kings in 2011-12. Outside that, it’s going to be all the worst jobs dropped into his lap. The centre has a ton of experience, which is what the team will rely on above else.
Over his 825-game NHL career, he’s scored 107 times on his way to 246 points. Outside of his surprising “Cy Young-nominee” 2018-19 season (19 goals, 8 assists) with the Arizona Coyotes, scoring is not on the menu.
What This Means
In a season filled with question marks, Calgary has as good a chance as any to make the playoffs. They don’t have much of a choice, after six years of getting dropped in the first round or not making the second season at all. The challenge is to make noise after getting out of a relatively weak Pacific Division, not just clawing their way to May.
Richardson is likely stepping into Byron Froese‘s spot on the fourth line, though he does cost $75,000 more. It’s not exactly the Jack Eichel deal the fan base is hoping for, but he does play a physical game that should endear him to coach Darryl Sutter. That physical play has meant an extensive injury history, including for two long stretches last season. If he can keep healthy, he can certainly help the Calgary Flames. He’s a veteran penalty-killer, something the middle-of-the-road Flames could use if they have playoff aspirations. Special teams are amplified then, and a bit more skill there won’t hurt.
Main Photo: Embed from Getty Images
