As the NHL approaches the Olympic break, the Calgary Flames are positioned as potential sellers, and further trades are anticipated following the Rasmus Andersson deal. General Manager Craig Conroy has already made a significant move by sending Andersson to the Vegas Golden Knights. In return, the Flames received defenseman Zach Whitecloud, a 2027 first-round pick (top-10 protected), a conditional 2028 second-round pick that could become a first if the Golden Knights win the Stanley Cup, and prospect Abram Wiebe.
With the Olympic trade deadline on February 4th drawing near, speculation is growing around which other players might be moved. According to Daniel Austin of the Calgary Sun, veterans Nazem Kadri and Blake Coleman could be the next players on the move as the Flames consider trading established players for future assets.
Nazem Kadri, 35, is under contract through the 2028-29 season with a $7 million cap hit. Despite the challenges his contract presents, several contenders, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, Colorado Avalanche, Los Angeles Kings, and possibly the Dallas Stars, have expressed interest. TSN Hockey Insider Darren Dreger reported that Conroy and Kadri's camp are in ongoing discussions. Kadri has a 13-team no-trade list but is reportedly open to a move to a Stanley Cup contender.
Blake Coleman, 34, has one season remaining on his contract with a $4.9 million cap hit. Although currently on injured reserve, Coleman has had a solid season, scoring 13 goals in 44 games. Dreger noted that the Montreal Canadiens have shown moderate interest in Coleman. However, it has also been reported that the Flames may prefer to keep Coleman for his veteran leadership during their transition.
Other potential trade candidates include forward Ryan Lomberg, known for his toughness and Stanley Cup-winning experience with the Florida Panthers in 2024. While Lomberg is a fan favorite and adds value to the locker room, the return for him would likely be minimal.
With the NHL trade deadline on March 6, the Flames are in a seller's market, and further moves are anticipated before the Olympic break. The team is focused on re-tooling around younger players and accumulating assets for the future.
