The Calgary Flames are in a unique position as they enter the off-season, having already begun their asset accumulation through strategic trades. With a focus on restocking their roster, the Flames are now in a position to trade almost anyone on their current lineup, which is an intriguing prospect for fans and analysts alike. This willingness to trade is a bold move, and it raises several questions about the team's future direction and the potential impact on the NHL landscape.
One of the most notable names on the trade block is forward Blake Coleman. With a Stanley Cup pedigree and a style of play that is both effective and versatile, Coleman is an attractive option for contenders looking to bolster their depth. His ability to veto more than two-thirds of the league's teams gives him significant leverage, and his contract, with one year remaining and an AAV of $4.9 million, makes him an appealing trade chip. Personally, I think Coleman's experience and skill set could be a valuable addition to any team looking to make a late-season push for the playoffs.
Another player who could be on the move is Yegor Sharangovich. Despite logging just 29 points in 78 games this season, Sharangovich's contract, which carries an AAV of $5.75 million until 2030, makes him a challenging player to move. The cap is set to skyrocket, and the free agent class is as shallow as it gets, which means there may be a team looking to take a chance on Sharangovich's potential to rebound. However, the Flames likely won't get much back for him, which raises questions about the team's willingness to take on riskier assets.
Morgan Frost, acquired from the Philadelphia Flyers midway through the 2024-25 season, has been a mainstay at center for the Flames. With a career-high 22 goals and 43 points this season, Frost is a valuable player for the team. However, with the entire league on a perpetual hunt for help at center, Frost could be a valuable trade chip for GM Craig Conroy. His contract, signed until 2027 at a $4.375 million AAV, and eight-team no-trade list that kicks in next season, make him an attractive option for teams looking to add depth without committing long-term.
Connor Zary, who held out on his contract until late September last season, is another player who could be on the trade block. With a disappointing 27-point season, Zary's relationship with the team has been strained, and he could be an intriguing piece for a team looking to take a flyer on a young talent in need of a change of scenery. The Montreal Canadiens, who have explored similar options with players like Alex Newhook and Kirby Dach, could be a team interested in Zary.
Joel Farabee, acquired along with Frost 16 months ago, has been used up and down the lineup. While his versatility is an asset, it is also a challenge for teams and coaches to factor him into the lineup. With two years remaining on his contract at a $5-million AAV and zero trade protection, Farabee could be an attractive asset for another team looking for middle-six help. However, the Flames likely won't get much in return for him, which raises questions about the team's willingness to trade away valuable assets.
The Flames have stockpiled assets during their rebuild, and they remain in seller mode entering the summer. The question now is how much further Conroy and his staff will trim their roster down before looking to build it back up. It may be dependent on what other teams are looking to pay up for, and it will be interesting to see how the market for these players unfolds in the coming months. In my opinion, the Flames' willingness to trade almost anyone on their roster is a bold move that could have significant implications for the NHL landscape, and it will be fascinating to see how it plays out.
