A recent report noted that Calgary Flames General Manager Craig Conroy is on the hunt for a middle-six center. It sounded like new information that was directly linked to the team's hot start. However, that might not be the case.

Conroy confirmed in a recent conversation that he's been on the lookout for a center since the moment he traded former Flames star Elias Lindholm.

In a recent interview with Eric Francis of Sportsnet, Conroy acknowledged the difficulty in finding a suitable replacement, especially a right-handed center, but hinted that this has been a bucket-list item for him for a while. He explained, “We lost Lindholm, a right-hand center in your top-six, and that’s something you’d want to find.”

So, in a way, the middle-six center addition is flexible. If the Flames can find a top-six center, they'll consider that too. As long as the player has NHL experience and is between the ages of 23 and 25, Conroy will take a look.

What Are the Flames Willing to Pay in a Trade?

Currently, the Flames are evaluating Martin Pospisil in the center position, and while he has shown promise, Conroy remains determined to bolster the roster. He seems willing to pay a hefty price if he finds the player he needs.

Reports are he is open to parting with a first-round pick for the right player, drawing parallels to Montreal’s recent trade for Kirby Dach, which cost the Canadiens a first- and a third-round pick.

As for who that would be, someone like Trevor Zegras of the Anaheim Ducks immediately comes to mind. He's not the only option, but the Ducks are willing to sell on the player and he's got a dynamic upside.

Conroy made it clear that the goal is not just a quick fix but rather a strategic move aimed at strengthening the Flames' roster long-term. This will be a calculated move, which could explain why it's taken so long to find something he likes.