The Calgary Flames’ preseason action has been exciting, with Matt Coronato emerging as an early standout performer. The 13th overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft has already tallied five points (3 goals, 2 assists) in just two games, showcasing his offensive skill.
He’s starting to make the case that he’s ready to stick in the NHL, and at just 21 years old, Coronato is showing that his time in the AHL may be behind him. Wednesday night he gets another shot to prove he should be in the mix for a full-time spot on the Flames’ roster in 2024-25.
Big game from Matty tonight in Seattle 👏
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) September 23, 2024
Coronato’s development is starting to take shape. During the 2023-24 season, he split time between the Flames and their AHL affiliate, the Calgary Wranglers. While his NHL numbers were modest, with three goals and nine points in 34 games, Coronato excelled in the AHL, scoring 42 points (15 goals) in 41 games.
Heading into training camp, Coronato expressed his desire to set a higher standard and play up to a more consistent level. So far, he’s delivering on that promise. His ability to create offensive chances every time he’s on the ice has Flames fans excited for what could be a breakout campaign.
“Come in as the best version of myself with a lot of confidence and show what I can do. That’s my goal,” Coronato said in August, and so far, he’s achieved just that. With his incredible shot and flashes of high-end skill, the Flames are hoping he’s ready to take the next step.
Can The Young Guns in Calgary Keep It Going?
The Flames’ young top prospects are off to a great start overall, with Connor Zary posting three points in one game and Sam Honzek contributing five assists in two games. That duo, along with Coronato make up a big portion of the Flames’ future.
While there isn’t any real pressure on these key pieces to turn into stars overnight, they are giving fans plenty to be excited about things as the preseason unfolds.
And, while some may downplay it as just preseason hockey, they’ve been solid and have the right mindset. “We could be a team that’s going to be one of the hardest working teams…definitely not a team that should be taken lightly,” Coronato said.
It’s the right attitude to have as he makes a full-time transition to the NHL.
