Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 12:00am

CONROY RETURNS TO FLAMES

The Calgary Flames acquired center Craig Conroy from the Los Angeles Kings for forward Jamie Lundmark, a fourth-round draft pick in 2007 and a second-round draft pick in 2008.

What does it give the Calgary Flames
Jarome Iginla's pivot during the fabled 2003-04 Stanley Cup run is back in Calgary. This time, however, the 35-year-old Conroy will find things a little more crowded at center than he did during his first tour of duty. Daymond Langkow and Matt Lombardi are having career seasons, while Conroy was enduring a miserable one in Los Angeles with just 16 points in 52 games. The smooth-skating veteran was a popular figure in Calgary. He brings leadership, an outstanding attitude and two-way play with him. Moreover, he's a PK soldier and legit faceoff man. An excellent insurance policy, the Flames now boast a deep corps at center with, most notably, Langkow, Lombardi and Stephane Yelle. Directly or indirectly, Conroy's presence definitely helps solidify the club's bottom six up front. But the most important question is: Can a return to the Flames re-energize him? Side-note: Conroy will get a chance to lead the NHL in games played this season. If he stays healthy, Conroy could play 85 games this year.

What does it give the Los Angeles Kings
The Kings add depth in Lundmark who, at 26, is still young enough to show some upside. Unfortunately, Calgary wasn't the place. Despite showing some good signs when acquired by the Flames during last season's trade deadline, Lundmark just couldn't get it going this year. He can play any forward position, which is always a bonus. More importantly, the Kings pick up two very nice draft picks while giving up a player who really does not fit into their rebuilding plan.

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