The Rotating Roster: A Season of Opportunities
This season has been a revolving door for the Calgary Flames and their AHL affiliate, the Calgary Wranglers. A total of 11 players have had the chance to suit up for both teams, showcasing the Flames’ commitment to developing their prospects and giving them valuable NHL experience. Notable among these players is defenseman Tyson Barrie, who completed a conditioning assignment, and a slew of forwards and defensemen who have been given opportunities to prove themselves at the highest level. Forwards like Matthew Coronato, Adam Klapka, Rory Kerins, Dryden Hunt, Clark Bishop, Sam Honzek, Jakob Pelletier, and Walker Duehr, along with defenseman Ilya Solovyov, have all seen double duty. Coronato, in particular, has carved out a regular role, while Klapka and Kerins have received extended looks. Each player’s journey highlights the dynamic nature of the Flames’ roster and the organization’s willingness to test and trust their younger talent.
Tales of Prospect Success
Several players have already made a significant impact. Matthew Coronato, after a brief stint with the Wranglers, has established himself as a regular on the Flames’ roster. His early-season performance in the AHL demonstrated his potential, and he has continued to grow and contribute at the NHL level. Adam Klapka, known for his physical play, has been given a long look as a punishing fourth-line player, adding depth and toughness to the Flames’ lineup. Rory Kerins made his NHL debut with a handful of games, showcasing his versatility and skill, and even earned a spot in the AHL All-Star Game. Ilya Solovyov had a brief but impressive stint on the top pairing before the 4-Nations Face-off, while Sam Honzek earned a spot on the Flames’ opening night roster before an injury set him back. Each of these players has left their mark, proving the value of the Flames’ developmental system.
Challenges and Transitions
Not all journeys have been smooth sailing. Jakob Pelletier, a rising prospect, was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers along with Andrei Kuzmenko in exchange for Morgan Frost and Joel Farabee. Pelletier’s upward trajectory was cut short by the trade, a common but often challenging aspect of the business. Walker Duehr, another promising player, was claimed on waivers by the San Jose Sharks last month, highlighting the fluid nature of the NHL and AHL circuits. Despite these changes, the Flames continue to integrate and develop their prospects, ensuring that the organization remains competitive and forward-thinking. As the season progresses, the health of key players like Connor Zary and Kevin Bahl will play a crucial role in determining who might get the next call-up to the NHL.
Emerging Talent: Sam Morton
One player who has caught the eye recently is center Sam Morton. The 25-year-old has been on a hot streak with the Wranglers, scoring three goals and racking up nine points in his last six games. Since early January, Morton has scored seven of his 13 goals and 15 of his 32 points in just 14 games, demonstrating a significant uptick in his offensive production. His journey to the AHL began last year when he signed as a college free agent and spent the final weeks of the Wranglers’ campaign in Calgary on an amateur tryout deal. Morton’s performance during the rookie training camp tournament was impressive, and he is now pushing hard for an NHL opportunity. His recent success in the minors makes him a strong candidate for a call-up, and Flames fans will be watching closely to see if he gets his chance.
Rising Star: Jeremie Poirier
Another player on the cusp of breaking through is defenseman Jeremie Poirier. At just 22 years old, Poirier has overcome significant challenges, including a knee injury and a deep wound to his arm sustained during a game. Despite the setbacks, he has shown remarkable resilience and is inching closer to his NHL debut. In his rookie season with the Wranglers in 2022-23, Poirier recorded nine goals and 41 points, and he has been on a strong run recently, notching a goal and seven points during a six-game point streak in January. Poirier’s recovery from his injuries has been long and difficult, but his return to form is evident. His skill as a slick, offensive defenseman makes him a valuable asset, and the Flames will likely keep an eye on him for an upcoming opportunity in the NHL.
Promising Prospect: William Strömgren
The 21-year-old Swedish forward, William Strömgren, has quietly become one of the Flames’ top AHL players this season. With 12 goals and 38 points in 46 games, Strömgren has shown both his offensive prowess and his responsible two-way play. Since mid-January, he has scored three goals and collected 10 points in 11 games, working his way from the bottom-six to a top-line role. Strömgren’s consistent performance and adaptability make him an ideal candidate for a look in the NHL. His ability to complement established players like Mikael Backlund could make him a valuable addition to the Flames’ top nine. As the season progresses, Strömgren’s continued success in the AHL will only strengthen the case for his promotion to the NHL, where he could provide a boost to the Flames’ forward lines.
