Flames Ship Out Coleman and Maatta, Land Middleton From Wild

Calgary is making a clear statement about its defensive priorities by acquiring Jake Middleton, a rugged defenseman who can anchor a blue line. The Flames are sending Blake Coleman and Olli Maatta to Minnesota in what looks like a calculated gamble on Middleton's ability to stabilize their back end. This is the kind of mid-tier trade that can either look brilliant or regrettable depending on how these players perform over the next two seasons.