While Calgary’s neighbors to the north have Stanley Cup aspirations, the Calgary Flames are slowly but surely building their foundation for future success.
The Flames open Wednesday on the road against the Vancouver Canucks with a younger, cheaper roster that’s just a few million above the cap floor. Calgary finished their season with a 38-39-5 record, 17 points out of a playoff spot.
With many re-tools or rebuilds, the crucial step in taking the next push forward will fall on the young core taking a step forward. More responsibility is set for 23-year-old Connor Zary and 21-year-old Matt Coronato, and even 19-year-old Samuel Honzek with a team-leading two goals and five assists in six pre-season games.
For 19 year old Honzek, it’s a dream come true to see his name in the final roster.
Although the youth movement is in full swing, the team will rely on their leadership and performances of core veterans Backlund, Coleman, Jonathan Huberdeau, Nazem Kadri and defencemen Mackenzie Weegar and Rasmus Andersson.
One of the bigger changes fans will see is the departure of goalie Jacob Markström, he was shipped off to the contending New Jersey Devils for a 1st round pick in 2025 and defensive prospect Kevin Bahl.
With Markström gone, this will give the opportunity for top prospect Dustin Wolf and Dan Vladar to become the starter of the future. Head coach Ryan Huska said the competition between the two goalies will only help improve them both and give the Flames their best opportunity to win game in and game out.
Calgary will take another step forward in their re-tool with their season opener Wednesday night at 8pm against the Vancouver Canucks on the road.