The skid in Calgary continues, prompting ownership to begin the process of looking towards next season and beyond.

While that result is not unexpected, Calgary fans, brass, and players cannot help but feel a little disappointed after experiencing a promising start. Some lengthy losing streaks, including the current four game slide, have contributed to the freefall down the standings, and the shipping out of some popular players. 

The New York Rangers and Calgary Flames matched up for a large scale trade that sent Kelly Buchberger, Doug Houda, Alexei Kadushov, Tony Horacek and Dwayne Hay to the Big Apple for David Vyborny, Troy Mallette, Shawn Bates, Darby Hendrickson, and Benoit Hogue. Calgary looks toward the future with Bates and Vyborny, while bringing back a pro in Hogue. While Bates and Vyborny might be a year or more away from getting a taste of the major leagues, they provide some hope for better years ahead in Calgary. Or, they may find themselves included in a transaction to net some more immediate impact players.

Speaking of, rumors are swirling that Jose Theodore was just moments away from also being traded. Some last minute deal tinkering caused the agreement to devolve, but there were building blocks set for the future, perhaps as soon as game 41 of this season. With 11 offers received for young Theo's services, it seems like it may be a case of when, not if, Jose is on the move.