The Calgary Flames aim to build on their late-season surge and secure a spot in the NHL playoffs. Despite finishing outside the postseason for the past three years, the Flames closed out last season with a strong 15-6-6 record, narrowly missing a wild-card spot.
With a familiar roster and the infusion of young talent by general manager Craig Conroy, the Flames are looking to not only sustain their 15-point improvement from the previous season but also make further strides. Center Nazem Kadri, who led the team in goals and assists last season, emphasized the need to gain a few extra points to elevate their performance.
The Flames kick off the 2025-26 season with two away games against Edmonton and Vancouver before returning home to face the St. Louis Blues. Defenseman MacKenzie Weegar acknowledged the challenging early-season schedule and emphasized the need for the team to be prepared for tougher competition this year.
Head coach Ryan Huska, entering his third season with the team, signed a contract extension through the 2027-28 season, providing stability to the coaching staff. The Flames will rely on key players like Mikael Backlund, Blake Coleman, Jonathan Huberdeau, Kadri, and Weegar to maintain a culture of hard work and enjoyment.
Young talents such as Matt Coronato, Connor Zary, Kevin Bahl, and Dustin Wolf have earned multi-year contracts after proving their value to the team. Wolf, a standout rookie last season, signed a lucrative extension, while Coronato, Zary, and Bahl showcased their skills and versatility on the ice.
The Flames are determined to silence doubters who question their performance last season and are focused on meeting their high expectations. The team’s blend of talent, work ethic, and leadership provides a solid foundation for success.
As the Flames look ahead to the future, the construction of the new arena at Scotia Place presents an exciting prospect for players and fans alike. The state-of-the-art facility, set to open for the 2027-28 season, symbolizes a new chapter for the team and enhances their appeal to potential players.
The development of young players like Zayne Parekh, a promising defenseman drafted by the Flames, will be crucial in maintaining the team’s competitiveness. With a blend of experienced veterans and emerging talent, the Flames are poised to make a strong push for playoff contention in the upcoming season.