Has Hammer played his last game?

Travis Hamonic. It looks like it's time for him to move on. Not because I want him to move on, but for economic reasons. There is not enough money to go around. I think his ultimate destination will be the Winnipeg Jets.

What will we miss in Hamonic? His first strength is his character in the dressing room. You can never underestimate a player who wears his heart on his sleeve. Of course, Hamonic is probably the Flames' best stay-home dman.  His presence will be missed in the defensive zone. He won't be there bailing out stupidity. I can't count how many times his hit or blocking a shot saved a scoring chance. The Flames will have to bring in a cheaper version, because every team needs a Hamonic.

The only downside on Hammer as he goes into free agency is his injuries. He has had some really bad luck, getting healthy only to be put back on the shelf. Hamonic's injury woes were mostly due to his play; he never shied away from any circumstance. I often cringed when I saw him jumping or diving to block a shot. Or when he would stick up for his teammates.

I was thinking to myself how sweet it would it be if he went back to Long Island.  I went to ask some of my islander fans how they felt. The feeling was that most likely, it's not going to happen. Not that they don't want him; far from it. It's just not a good fit. They would love to have him at a lower price tag. But that is not likely not going to happen. Hammer should get the same money for a three-year term. 

A connection of mine, Tommy Baffi from Long Island, put it this way:

"Travis Hamonic came up through the Islanders system and, of course, played the first portion of his career here on Long Island. I truly enjoyed and loved the time number 3 spent here as he brought superior play in his own zone and a true dedication to the community on Long Island and to his teammates in the locker room. Travis will be a free agent coming into the 2020-2021, and I think it is an interesting possibility for him to return to Long Island and play for our NY Islanders. If Travis is willing to come back on a reasonable short term deal to add beef and toughness to our defence, I say let's bring back number..."

Tommy does a Facebook watch program called Coaches Corner. You can find it on Drive 4 Five Facebook group or his own home page.

I concur, especially to his dedication to the community. Hammer is known for his time to the community; the City will surely miss his contributions to the charities within the City. His no-nonsense attitude has helped a team which, at times, has lacked the necessary toughness. In my opinion, the Islanders should consider picking Hamonic up.

When it comes to Hamonic, I don't believe he wanted to leave in the first place. He is most likely leaving Calgary for the same reason he left Long Island. I understand that family is his priority and I respect that. So chances are, Long Island won't be an option.

Last Word

It looks like this tourney will go on whether we embrace it or not. I am pretty sure the NHL really doesn't care what old farts like me think.  All eyes are on the players going into the tourney. Let's hope we can enjoy the game for what it is a sport. 

Talking about players, Mr. Gaudreau seems to be a major topic. Everyone but the kitchen sink is wondering what the Flames will do with him. Most people think that he will be sent packing. The Islanders might be a fit for him, along with Philly, Devils, Rangers, or Bruins. It will get interesting to see where he goes. 

Until next time!