The Calgary Flames are turning heads in pre-season, largely thanks to the stellar play of 19-year-old Samuel Honzek. Leading the NHL in pre-season scoring with two goals and five assists in just five games, Honzek has done everything he can to make a strong case for a spot on the Flames’ opening night roster.
His latest highlight came on Monday, where he scored a shorthanded beauty, weaving through the neutral zone before turning on the jets and skating past Seattle’s Vince Dunn to find the back of the net. “I told him it was sick … I think I said something like he might be too young to be doing that,” said goaltender Dan Vladar when he spoke to the media about what he said to Honzek after the goal.
The question for the Flames is simple: keep Honzek or give him more time before joining the big club.
Honzek Has Earned It, But It’s Not That Simple for the Flames
Selected 16th overall in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, Flames head coach Ryan Huska is aware Honzek has showcased his ability to compete against NHL-level opponents. “He just goes out there and works. I think that’s what you’d like to see in a young player,” Huska said. “You come and listen, you come and learn, and you try to make sure you bring your best when you’re at the rink.”
However, it’s not just a matter of performance. The Flames have multiple options to consider. Honzek can make the leap to the NHL, return to the WHL’s Vancouver Giants, or start his professional career with the AHL’s Calgary Wranglers.
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Given his dominant preseason, it’s hard to ignore the possibility of him staying in the NHL. But considering his limited 33-game WHL season last year due to injury, a stint with the Wranglers could be more beneficial long term.
Unless he continues to impress and makes it impossible to deny him with a handful of NHL games, Honzek will likely begin the season in the AHL. It will be there that he can hone his skills and get used to a more rigorous schedule. If he continues to shine, call him up.
For now, no decision has been made. Honzek’s spectacular preseason has earned him a longer look and whether he makes the opening night roster or not, he’s made it clear that he’s a major piece of the Flames’ future.
