Nikita Zadorov's Leadership & Trade Rumours
Welcome to the THW Calgary Flames Substack newsletter, with all the latest from our team of Flames writers.
In today’s edition, we look at Nikita Zadorov’s early-season success and leadership and what it means for his future in Calgary. Plus, both the Maple Leafs and Oilers could have an interest in trading with the Flames. Which players make sense to be moved? Finally, why was Jonathan Huberdeau benched in last night’s game?
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Now, on to the good stuff…
Flames’ Ryan Huska Explains Jonathan Huberdeau Benching
November 8, 2023 by Michael DeRosa
The Calgary Flames got a much-needed comeback win over the Nashville Predators on Nov. 7 and improved to a 4-7-1 record on the season. Although this was a good win for the club, it was overshadowed by a big decision from Flames head coach Ryan Huska – benching Jonathan Huberdeau for the entirety of the third period.
This is big news, as Huberdeau is expected to be one of the club’s most impactful players. However, it is clear that Huska has not been impressed with Huberdeau’s play, as evidenced by this benching. Following the contest, Huska was naturally asked why he benched the veteran forward. In response, the Flames’ bench boss responded with a simple, “I thought Huby had an off night.”
Flames Should Be Re-Signing Newfound Leader Nikita Zadorov
November 8, 2023 by Rupert McDonald
The Calgary Flames are in a tough spot. After rumours circulated that it would be a busy offseason of retooling, general manager Craig Conroy instead chose to keep his roster mainly intact, hoping for a turnaround in 2023-24. It’s early, but a turnaround seems unlikely with this group.
While Mikael Backlund signed an extension, several other key pieces are in the final year of their contracts, including Elias Lindholm, Noah Hanifin, Chris Tanev, and Nikita Zadorov. Reports surfaced that discussions had taken place with Lindholm, Hanifin, and Tanev, but a slow start to the campaign seems to have paused those talks. Meanwhile, Zadorov’s status hasn’t been talked about much at all, which is strange given that he should be the top priority to re-sign.
Insider Suggests Flames Could Bail Out Oilers In Stunning Trade
November 7, 2023 by Jim Parsons
In the wake of yet another disappointing loss for the Edmonton Oilers (it feels like we’re saying this an awful lot to start these articles…), it has become increasingly evident that the team is in dire need of external help to address their goaltending and defensive woes. With a dismal 2-7-1 start to the season and glaring issues in net and on the blue line, the Oilers find themselves at a crossroads, desperately seeking solutions.
In a recent episode of the 32 Thoughts podcast, analysts Jeff Marek and Elliotte Friedman delved into the Oilers’ predicament. They highlighted two major concerns plaguing the team: the lack of key saves at crucial moments and the opposing players exploiting Edmonton’s vulnerable defense. They also discussed a stunning option that the Oilers might consider if things get really, really bad.
Maple Leafs Like Multiple Flames D-Men in Big Blue Line Trade
November 6, 2023 by Jim Parsons
Recently losers for four in a row, as the Toronto Maple Leafs look for answers to their current woes. Roster shuffling is taking place and rumors are starting to swirl about the players — both new and old. The most recent additions to the team are having a hard time getting acclimated and making a difference, while some of the older players are struggling to help the Leafs keep the puck out of their own net.
There’s been a myriad of criticism as the Maple Leafs are being raked over the coals for a lack of pushback and team toughness and now, as Nick Robertson is promoted, what happens with some of the key pieces on the team if they keep losing is anyone’s guess.