In the ever-evolving world of professional hockey, the Calgary Flames have experienced quite a bit of turnover over the past year. This constant state of flux can present both challenges and opportunities for the players on the team. One player who has been closely watched by Flames fans is Matthew Coronato, a highly anticipated prospect who is hoping to prove himself at the NHL level.
After completing his second season at Harvard, Coronato signed his entry-level contract with the Calgary Flames and had a brief stint with the team at the end of the 2022-2023 season. While he did not register any points in his lone game, Coronato’s performance caught the attention of fans and management alike.
As the 2023-2024 season approached, expectations were high for Coronato. Fans were eager to see what the offensively skilled right-shot winger could bring to the team, particularly on the power play. Despite a strong showing in training camp, Coronato struggled to find consistency once the season started. In 34 games with the Flames, he managed to score 3 goals and 9 points, but he was overshadowed by fellow rookies Connor Zary and Martin Pospisil.
This forced Coronato to spend most of the season with the Calgary Wranglers in the AHL, where he demonstrated his ability to be a point-per-game player. His strong performance earned him a call-up towards the end of the season, but he primarily saw time on the fourth line. Although he held his own in that role, the Flames organization is hoping for more from him as they head into the upcoming season.
Unfortunately for Coronato, the roster for the 2024-2025 season appears to be stacked against him. With the additions of Andrei Kuzmenko and Anthony Mantha, along with the breakout performances of Zary and Pospisil, there may not be a spot for Coronato in the Flames’ top nine forwards. It is likely that he will start the season back in the AHL, where he will need to continue his offensive output to stay on the radar for a call-up.
In order to secure a more permanent spot with the Flames, Coronato will need to prove himself as a consistent scorer. While his defensive play is commendable, his true value lies in his ability to put up points on the board. The Flames will be closely monitoring his progress throughout the season, as his performance will play a significant role in determining his future with the team.
As Coronato prepares for what could be a make-or-break season, fans are hopeful that he will live up to the expectations that accompanied his selection in the NHL Draft. Whether he is honing his skills in the AHL or making a case for himself in the NHL, all eyes will be on Matthew Coronato as he strives to solidify his place within the Calgary Flames organization.
