2022-23
Record: 38-27-17 (93 pts) – 5th in Pacific
Playoffs: Did Not Qualify
Key Losses
Tyler Toffoli (F – NJ), Michael Stone (D – Retired), Milan Lucic (F – BOS), Darryl Sutter (Head Coach), Brad Treliving (General Manager)
Key Additions
Yegor Sharangovich (F), Jordan Oesterle (D), Ryan Huska (Head Coach), Craig Conroy (General Manager)
2023-24 Preview
The Calgary Flames had a record of 38-27-17, earning a total of 93 points. They finished 5th in the Pacific division and did not qualify for the playoffs.
Necessary Changes
After having such a disappointing season the Flames brass felt it was time for a change. Brad Treliving let his contract expire so the Flames could get a new general manger with a fresh vision. Along with that move Darryl Sutter would be fired as head coach. After an extensive search, Craig Conroy would be named the new general manager. With Conroy as general manager, he would hire Ryan Huska as the Flames new head coach.
Under the coaching of Sutter, there were indications that some players on the Calgary Flames roster were experiencing unhappiness.
With the Flames’ decision to part ways with Sutter and hire a new head coach, Huska, the organization is aiming to bring a fresh perspective and potentially alleviate any unhappiness that may have existed. The hope is that the coaching change will create a positive atmosphere, allowing the players to perform at their best and propel the team towards success in the upcoming season.
Looking to Bounce Back
Bounce back seasons are crucial for Jacob Markstrom, Jonathan Huberdeau, and Nazem Kadri. Each player had a disappointing performance in the previous season and will be looking to regain their form and contribute significantly to their respective teams.
Markstrom had a challenging 2022-23 season. After a strong showing in the previous year, expectations were high for Markstrom. In 2021-22 Markstrom would record an impressive 37-15-9 with a 2.22 GAA and .922 save percentage with nine shutots. However, he struggled with consistency and his performance fell short of expectations. Markstrom will need to regain his confidence and showcase his skills as one of the top goaltenders in the league. The Flames will heavily rely on his abilities to provide stability between the pipes and give them a chance to compete for a playoff spot. Especially with young netminders Dan Vladar and Dustin Wolf waiting in the wings.
Huberdeau also experienced a somewhat underwhelming season. After recording 30 goals and 85 assists for 115 points in 2021-22 with the Florida Panthers, he would then put up 15 goals and 40 assists for 55 points in his first season with the Flames. If Huberdeau rediscovers his scoring touch and elevates his game, it will significantly boost the Flames’ chances of success and make them a formidable force in the league.
Read our other 2023-24 Team Previews: ANA, ARI, BOS, BUF
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