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The Calgary Flames were the big sellers in last season’s NHL trade market. Between November and June, they shipped out Nikita Zadorov, Elias Lindholm, Noah Hanifin, Chris Tanev, Jacob Markstrom and Andrew Mangiapane.
That activity has some observers wondering which Flames veterans could hit the trade block this season. Some wondered if the club’s hot start might affect their efforts to be sellers this season.
TSN’s Pierre LeBrun reports Flames GM Craig Conroy doesn’t understand the expectation that his club will be major sellers. He indicates Conroy doesn’t intend to tear his roster down to the studs and start over. The Hockey News’ Jim Parsons cited the report, adding that the decision would prioritize roster stability during a time of transition.
LeBrun pointed out that the core veterans some observers suggest could be trade bait are under contract beyond this season. Those include center Nazem Kadri, defenseman MacKenzie Weegar and forward Blake Coleman.
The Hockey News’ Adam Proteau believes Conroy shouldn’t rule out moving those players if the right offers come along and that a full rebuild is better than a re-tool. However, their contracts give them complete control over their futures in the Stampede City.
Related: Opinion: Despite Hot Start, Calgary Flames Shouldn’t Rule Out Big Trades
Kadri, 34, frequently appeared in the off-season rumor mill. At the start of training camp, he told reporters to “pump the breaks” on the speculation, insisting he loves the team and the city and looked forward to helping his teammates surprise people this season. He’s signed through 2028-29 with an average annual value of $7 million and a full no-movement clause.
Weegar and Coleman also expressed their wish to stay in Calgary. The 30-year-old Weegar is signed through 2030-31 with a $6.25-million cap hit and a full no-movement clause. Coleman, 32, has two years remaining with a cap hit of $4.9 million and a 10-team no-trade list.
Conroy told LeBrun he believes those players want to stay with the Flames. He wants to keep them around to build the right culture for their younger players to follow.
Related: NHL Power Rankings: New No. 1 – Stars, Jets And Flames Rise While Oilers And Avalanche Fall
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