Why Patrik Laine makes sense for Craig Conroy's Flames, and what it could cost

Patrik Laine still has suitors, and the Calgary Flames, now dead last in the NHL, are among the teams that could use him most.

David Pagnotta said it's "the same group of teams" that explored Laine back in July: Calgary, Los Angeles, Tampa Bay, Boston and Minnesota.

For Calgary, the need is obvious. The Flames are 0-5-0 with just eight goals scored and 27 allowed.

They've lost by scores of 6-1 twice, 4-1 and 7-3, then 4-2 at home to Anaheim on Saturday.

The Finn is a shooter first, and a power-play weapon like him could flip momentum in games that are slipping away.

Even a few timely goals would give the Flames' defence and goalies a break. Dustin Wolf sits at .816 and Devin Cooley at .818, and both have faced constant pressure.

Craig Conroy needs a shooter, and Patrik Laine is still available

Craig Conroy has also reportedly been talking to other unsigned forwards, including Vladimir Tarasenko, David Perron, James van Riemsdyk and Jonathan Drouin.

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Laine has the highest offensive ceiling of that group. He's also the riskiest, which is exactly why a team with nothing to lose should try him.

Calgary should sign him now. A one-year deal costs little, gives the power play a weapon, and could turn into a deadline asset if he gets hot.

Adding him to this lineup is like bolting a turbo onto a car stuck in neutral. You still need to find the gear, but the power is there when you do.

The competition is real. Los Angeles, Tampa Bay, Boston and Minnesota all have more to offer a player looking to win now.

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Ryan Huska's group visits Anaheim on Tuesday, still looking for its first win.

Laine needs a fresh start somewhere. Calgary needs goals from anywhere, and that might be the perfect match.

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