The Calgary Flames are navigating a busy offseason, with news and rumors swirling around several key players and the team's future direction. Here's a breakdown of the latest:
Rasmus Andersson's Future in Question
Rasmus Andersson's future with the Flames appears increasingly uncertain. Recent reports suggest that the Flames and Andersson are not close to reaching an agreement on a contract extension, and the defenseman has indicated he is ready to move on. With only one year remaining on his current deal, a trade seems imminent. Several teams have been identified as potential destinations, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Columbus Blue Jackets, Dallas Stars, Tampa Bay Lightning and Nashville Predators.
General Manager Craig Conroy is reportedly waiting for the right offer for Andersson, and a trade could happen as soon as the NHL Draft. Andersson, a 2015 draft pick, has been a valuable player for the Flames for a decade, but the team's current rebuilding phase may make moving on the best option for both parties. Trading Andersson would allow the Flames to acquire valuable assets, such as draft picks and prospects, to bolster their future.
Kevin Bahl Inks Long-Term Extension
In a significant move, the Flames have re-signed defenseman Kevin Bahl to a six-year contract with an average annual value of $5.35 million. Bahl, who was acquired by the Flames in a trade with the New Jersey Devils for goaltender Jacob Markstrom, had a career-high 20 points (3 goals, 17 assists) in 73 games this past season. The 25-year-old's extension indicates the Flames' confidence in his abilities and his role in the team's future. Bahl's height is listed as 6'6” and weight is listed as 230 lbs.
Dustin Wolf: Calder Trophy Runner-Up
Dustin Wolf, the Flames' promising young goaltender, finished second in Calder Trophy voting, marking the highest placing for a Flames rookie since 1996-97. Wolf had a strong first full season in the NHL, posting 29 wins with a 2.64 goals-against average and a .910 save percentage. Despite missing out on the top rookie honor, Wolf's performance has solidified his position as the Flames' starting goaltender and a key piece of their future. The 24-year-old's success is particularly noteworthy considering he was a seventh-round draft pick in 2019.
Vladar's Future Uncertain
Veteran backup goaltender Dan Vladar's future with the Flames is uncertain as he approaches unrestricted free agency. While Vladar has expressed a willingness to return, it would likely be in a limited role, potentially at a salary below his previous $2.2 million. The Flames may explore other options for a backup goaltender, either through free agency or by promoting from within their AHL affiliate. Jake Allen and Ilya Samsonov have been mentioned as potential free agent targets.
Draft Picks: Reschny and Potter
The Calgary Flames selected centre Cole Reschny with the 18th overall pick and Cullen Potter with the 32nd overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. Reschny, from the Victoria Royals, is known for his high work ethic and hockey IQ. Potter, from Arizona State University, is a skilled offensive player.
Other Flames News
The Flames' offseason is shaping up to be pivotal as they aim to build a competitive team for the future. The decisions made regarding Andersson, Vladar, and their restricted free agents, along with the development of young players like Wolf, Reschny and Potter, will be critical in determining the team's success in the coming years.
