
FLAMES RETOOL TRACKER: Which centres could Calgary target in 2025 NHL Draft?
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Braeden Cootes
Hometown: Sherwood Park, Alta.
This season: 26 goals, 63 points in 60 games with the WHL's Seattle Thunderbirds
Measurements: 6-foot, 183 pounds
The skinny: This up-and-comer hails from Oil Country, but we won't hold that against him, not with so many traits that make him an intriguing fit for the Flames. Cootes was Canada's top scorer at the World Under-18s, with six goals — including a pair of game-winners — and a dozen points in seven tournament tilts. He brings boundless energy and has a righty curve on his stick, a rarity in Calgary's pipeline. Cootes was the youngest captain in the WHL this season and also rocked the 'C' for Team Canada, so he earns another checkmark for his leadership qualities.
Cole Reschny
Hometown: Macklin, Sask.

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