The 2024-25 season is upon us and Last Word on Hockey is here with our Puck Drop Previews, starting with the Calgary Flames. Last season may not have been a banner year for the Flames in terms of team success, but there were some bright spots to be found. Forward Yegor Sharangovich made a big impact in his first year with the team, putting up 31 goals and 59 points in 82 games. Center Nazem Kadri also had a stellar season, scoring 75 points and taking on a leadership role with young players like Connor Zary and Martin Pospisil.
As the offseason approached, the Flames made a major move by trading starting goaltender Jacob Markstrom to the Devils in exchange for Kevin Bahl and a first-round pick in 2025. This signals the team’s commitment to building for the future, a plan that was further solidified with the draft selections of defenseman Zayne Parekh and forward Matvei Gridin. In free agency, the Flames focused on adding depth with signings like Anthony Mantha, Ryan Lomberg, Jake Bean, and Devin Cooley.
One thing is clear from the Flames’ offseason moves – they are focused on building a solid foundation for the future. By signing free agents to shorter-term deals and prioritizing the development of young players, Calgary is setting itself up for long-term success. Look for the Flames to continue this trend of youth movement, as they aim to give their up-and-coming stars the opportunity to shine at the NHL level.
The forward lines for the upcoming season are shaping up to be exciting, with a top line featuring Jonathan Huberdeau, Yegor Sharangovich, and Anthony Mantha. The second line will consist of Connor Zary, Nazem Kadri, and Andrei Kuzmenko, while the third line will see Martin Pospisil, Mikael Backlund, and Blake Coleman.
As the puck drops on the 2024-25 season, the Calgary Flames are primed to make some noise in the NHL. Stay tuned for more Puck Drop Previews from Last Word on Hockey as we continue to preview each team’s outlook for the upcoming year.
