Latest news with #Flames
Edmonton Journal
5 hours ago
- Sport
- Edmonton Journal
Is Brett Sutter a rising star in the coaching ranks? The Calgary Flames believe so
Article content A hat-trick of Brett's uncles — Brent, Brian and Duane — have also been big-league bosses, while Ron was previously Calgary's director of player development. Article content Forced to hang up his gear due to injuries, Darryl was still in his late 20s when he switched to a suit and tie. His coaching climb included two campaigns of calling the shots in the minors. Article content Brett had just turned three when Darryl led the Indianapolis Ice to the IHL's Turner Cup in 1990. Article content He grew up around the rink as his dad was guiding Ed Belfour, Chris Chelios and Jeremy Roenick in Chicago, then Patrick Marleau, Owen Nolan and Teemu Selanne in San Jose. Article content Flames fans don't need any sort of refresher on what happened in 2004, when 'The Jolly Rancher' spurred Jarome Iginla, Miikka Kiprusoff, Conroy and the rest of a hard-hatted squad on an improbable run to Game 7 of the Stanley Cup final. If only replay technology was a little more advanced back then … Article content Article content Article content 'Even though Brett only has the one year of coaching experience, I just think the whole career part of it and the blue-collar work ethic that he has, quite honest, I think it leads up to a long career for him,' Darryl told Postmedia. 'He was raised in a locker room, so he understands the team part of it. I remember taking him into the locker room in Chicago when he was a little boy. You learn a lot being in the locker room, and he has basically done that his whole life. He's lucky in that sense. Article content 'Brett, his leadership skills are off the charts. He was captain of, what, three or four teams? And his hockey IQ is really high. He knows the game. I think he understands what it takes and the roles, that sort of thing. Article content 'And he's obviously familiar with the whole organization, from ownership right down to the trainers. So I think it's perfect for him and it's great for the Flames to develop a young coach like that.' Article content Article content The pipeline has been a positive story for the Flames over the past few seasons, with Matt Coronato, Dustin Wolf and Connor Zary among the graduates from farmhand to fixture. Article content As Conroy seeks to build a contender, that trend must continue. Brett Sutter now plays a vital role. Article content The Wranglers' roster for this upcoming season should be stocked with youngsters. It's possible that more than half the guys in their lineup on any given night will be in their early 20s — among them, forwards Andrew Basha, Matvei Gridin, Sam Honzek, Rory Kerins, William Stromgren and Aydar Suniev, defencemen Hunter Brzustewicz, Artem Grushnikov, Yan Kuznetsov and Etienne Morin and goaltender Arsenii Sergeev. (The oldest dude on this list is 23.)
Time of India
2 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Nazem Kadri's trade value reportedly at peak: Are the Flames finally ready to pull the trigger?
Flames could trade Nazem Kadri at peak value, claims insider (Imagn Images) With the Calgary Flames drifting toward a rebuild, the trade winds around veteran forward Nazem Kadri are growing louder. NHL insider Nick Kypreos recently suggested Kadri's trade value 'has never been higher,' sparking fresh buzz about whether the Flames might finally consider parting ways with one of their most consistent contributors. As the offseason unfolds, the front office faces a critical decision: ride with experience or cash in while the demand peaks. Flames face a defining moment amid mounting trade interest Nazem Kadri's name has hovered in trade conversations throughout the summer, and for good reason. Coming off a career-best 35-goal, 67-point season and having played a full 82-game slate for the third consecutive year, the 34-year-old has proven he's still a valuable asset. His durability and offensive consistency make him a prime target for contending teams hungry for experience and depth. — NHLRumourReport (@NHLRumourReport) Toronto Maple Leafs fans have even been hopeful about a potential reunion. While that door may be closing, Kadri's value remains undeniable. Kypreos emphasized, 'His trade value has likely never been higher in his career,' and that kind of endorsement could light a fire under Flames GM Craig Conroy. Although the Flames have been reluctant to move Kadri—who holds a full no-movement clause—the context has shifted. With speculation also circling defenseman Rasmus Andersson, it's becoming clear the organization is open to change. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo And in a league where timing is everything, this summer could be the ideal window for a major shake-up. Kadri holds the cards, but the clock is ticking What complicates the situation is Kadri's apparent happiness in Calgary. He's vocalized comfort with the organization, and unless approached with a compelling opportunity, he may prefer to stay put. That said, no-movement clauses don't make trades impossible—they simply require mutual agreement. If a legitimate Stanley Cup contender knocks on Calgary's door with a strong offer, and Kadri sees a chance at another deep playoff run, things could shift quickly. While he may ultimately remain with the Flames, the possibility of a late-summer blockbuster—or even a trade deadline surprise—shouldn't be ruled out. FAQs 1. Why is Nazem Kadri being mentioned in trade rumors? Nazem Kadri's trade value is reportedly at its peak, making him a prime target for contending teams. 2. Are the Calgary Flames planning to trade Kadri? While nothing is confirmed, the Flames may explore offers as they lean toward a potential rebuild. 3. Can Kadri be traded despite his no-movement clause? Yes, but only if Kadri agrees to waive the clause for a suitable opportunity. Also Read: NHL Trade Rumor: Could Connor McDavid ditch Oilers for Leafs? Buzz grows around blockbuster Maple Leafs partnership Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
3 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Connor Zary contract talks: Why the Calgary Flames must prioritize the 23-year-old forward
Connor Zary contract talks: Why the Calgary Flames must prioritize the 23-year-old forward (Image Via Twitter) Connor Zary's contract extension should be one of the top decisions put forth by the franchise during what promises to be an important offseason for the Calgary Flames. At 23 years of age, he has yet to put up eye-popping numbers, but his development curve steeply athletic displays of versatility make him one among Calgary's most promising young lifelines. If managed correctly with a consideration of internal growth, continuing Zary into the team at this juncture could perhaps become a glorious foresight for the club. Connor Zary's versatility adds depth and balance to Calgary's lineup The Hockey News Big Show: NHL Mailbag Episode – Marner's Return, Sleeper Team And More What makes Connor Zary highly valuable is his ability to slide in at several positions. Having played much of last season on the wing, Zary would bring valuable flexibility to the Flames if it ever becomes necessary for him to revert to the center position. This is an essential characteristic for a Flames team that has struggled for consistency down the middle. His on-ice awareness and ability to rush the play from the forecheck, as well as attacking offensively in all zones, go a long way towards balancing the group of forward lines and providing the coaches with more options when deciding how to line combinations. Despite two untimely injuries last season, from a knee-on-knee collision to a separate fall, he managed to return each time with his usual poise. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like What Affects Personal Loan Rates? Here's What Experts Say asklayers Learn More Undo His resolve and ability to carry the puck patently indicate that when healthy, he can "push the pace" and provide dynamism to the offence. He had already begun to signal his upward trajectory with 21 goals and 58 points in 72 games in the AHL the previous year. The time is right for the Calgary Flames to secure Connor Zary at value Zary's entry-level contract has expired, with a modest cap hit of $863,334, rendering him a restricted free agent. This is certainly an excellent opportunity for General Manager Craig Conroy to strike. The numbers may not yet attest to such a high ceiling, but the hint is there; he must be locked up now before a breakout season, and Calgary is left with another cap headache. Considering his trajectory, a fully operational NHL year could garner 20-25 goals and beyond 50 points for Zary. Signing him now, while cheap, is exactly the right move to blend with the wider rebuilding goals of the club. Also Read: Dan Muse opens up about his new role as Pittsburgh Penguins head coach and plans Connor Zary is not only a part of the Flames' future; he's also in a position to make an impact today. With his positional versatility, bettering statistics, and a good attitude, he should be near the top of Calgary's offseason shopping list. Getting a good deal now will pay off big for them later on. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Connor Zary's Next Deal a Priority for Flames
Signing Connor Zary should be near the top of Flames' GM Craig Conroy's to-do list. The 23-year-old forward is a Restricted Free Agent (RFA), and while his numbers don't scream 'super star' just yet— 13 goals, 14 assists, 27 points in 53 games last season—there's no mistaking the upside. Zary showed flashes of top-six potential before two fluke injuries derailed his year: first, a knee-on-knee collision in Anaheim and then an awkward fall after being hauled down against Dallas. Still, when he's healthy, Zary drives play and creates dynamic offence. A full season could see him push 25 goals and 50 points. His scoring touch showed in 2022–23 with the AHL's Wranglers, where he played all 72 games and racked up 21 goals and 58 points. He also has the potential to slide from wing to centre, which would give the Flames much needed stability down the middle. Zary can be streaky at times, but his game is still maturing. If he finds another level of consistency, he becomes a key piece in Calgary's forward group. Drafted 24th overall in 2020, Zary is coming off a three-year entry-level deal with a modest $863,334 cap hit. The Flames are in a great spot to sign him at value. The production may not match the ceiling just yet—but it's coming. Zary isn't just part of the future—he's shown he can make an impact now. © Tim Fuller-Imagn Images © Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
Time of India
4 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Rory Kerins, Yan Kuznetsov, and Jeremie Poirier re-signed as Calgary Flames put trio on notice in high-stakes season
Images via Getty On Thursday in Calgary, the Flames confirmed new contracts for three of their restricted free agents: centre Rory Kerins and defencemen Yan Kuznetsov and Jeremie Poirier. But make no mistake — these are not comfortable, long-term commitments. Each deal signals a challenge. A chance to break through — or risk slipping out of the team's future plans entirely. The organization has shown belief in all three players, but with competition mounting and roster spots scarce, this season may be the most important of their professional careers. Calgary Flames hand short-term deals to Rory Kerins, Yan Kuznetsov, and Jeremie Poirier in a pivotal NHL season that could define their futures Rory Kerins enters this year's camp with momentum. The 23-year-old centre from Caledon, Ontario, signed a one-year, one-way deal worth $775,000 after leading the AHL's Calgary Wranglers in scoring last season with 61 points (33 goals, 28 assists). He also recorded four assists in five NHL appearances. Now, with a fourth-line centre role up for grabs, Kerins has a chance to earn a permanent spot. If he delivers, it could earn him a more stable contract in 2026. If not, it may mark the end of his time with the Flames. Jeremie Poirier finds himself in a similar position. Also 23, the defenceman from Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, Quebec, signed an identical one-year, one-way deal. After battling a serious laceration that limited his 2023–24 season, Poirier returned to post 42 points (5 goals, 37 assists) across 71 AHL games in 2024–25. While he's flashed offensive upside, Calgary's defensive depth has grown, and Poirier has slid down the pecking order. This year, he'll need to reassert his place in the NHL pipeline or risk being passed over. Yan Kuznetsov's new deal stands out slightly — a two-year, two-way contract valued at $812,500 annually, with the second year becoming one-way. The 22-year-old from Murmansk, Russia, played 72 games with the Wranglers last season, registering a career-high 21 points and leading the team with a plus-21 rating. A second-round pick in 2020, Kuznetsov played a single NHL game during the 2023–24 season. While his contract gives him more time, the expectations remain the same: prove you're not just an AHL standout. Rory Kerins, Yan Kuznetsov, and Jeremie Poirier face make-or-break pressure as Calgary Flames' 2025–26 NHL season looms The Calgary Flames are sending a clear message: the clock is ticking. With these short-term contracts, Calgary is betting on upside but demanding results. Rory Kerins, Jeremie Poirier, and Yan Kuznetsov will head into camp knowing that what happens next — and where it happens — will define their futures. Whether they carve out full-time NHL roles or remain on the fringe depends entirely on what they show this season. Also Read: Chicago Blackhawks sign Anton Frondell to $2.9 million deal as Swedish 'tank' eyes NHL future Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
