D'Arcy McGrath
August 2nd, 2005

It's not a hoax.

There really is a new economic order in the National Hockey League, at least that's what many Calgarians will think when they wake up to see actual additions in Calgary's dailies tomorrow morning.

Yes additions. Not subtractions. Not heart wrenching trades that feature fan favourites leaving for greener (as in money) pastures leaving hopefuls and possibilities in their wake.

Actual, bonafide additions.

If rumours are to be believed, tomorrow at 2:30 MST Darryl Sutter will take to the podium at the Pengrowth Saddledome and announce the additions of two rather unexpected, yet well received veteran forwards to the Western Conference Champions; Tony Amonte and Darren McCarty.

With that hockey fans in the Red Mile city will receive a non too subtle pinch to prove they are not in fact dreaming that there just may be a more level playing field when the puck drops on the upcoming NHL season in October.

Like I said ... additions. Who'd a thunk?

Darryl Sutter, much like the 2004 trade deadline played down fan expectations by preaching budget and suggesting the Flames wouldn't be out spending in the new world order. Many didn't believe him then, and got their proof today with the unexpected Tuesday.

The day didn't come without some disappointment however as Martin Gelinas flew the coop to join former Flames Joe Niewendyk and Gary Roberts in Florida, leaving behind him a great set of series winning goals and a special place in Flames playoff history. 

In Amonte the Flames add a speedy 35 year old former scoring star that just might find added ice time and responsibility to his liking moving back to the 30 goal mark. A player that can play the left side, look for Amonte to line up on the left side of an improved Calgary top line that will feature Daymond Langkow and Jarome Iginla.

Darren McCarty, fresh off a stinging defeat by his now new teammates in last year's playoffs, must have seen something he liked in his three flights in and out of Calgary last spring and will likely patrol the right side of a physical third line and add character and leadership to the Calgary room.

A huge boost in depth.

Reportedly, Amonte and McCarty both signed two year deals for 1.8 and .8 per year respectively.

The two wingers will add to the clubs top three lines joining the likes of Iginla, Langkow, Steve Reinprecht, Chris Simon, Stephane Yelle, Jason Wiemer, Marcus Nilson, and Shean Donovan. 

And that doesn't include youngsters Chuck Kobasew and Matthew Lombardi.

Dare I say a few tough decisions will need to be made?