10. Several Young Stars Have Career Years
The motto in 2026/27 for the Flames should be clear: prioritize the youth and the future of the organization, as a potential return to the post-season relies entirely on the development of players 23-years-old and younger.
Last season, we saw the arrival of Zayne Parekh and Matvei Gridin, and with players like Hunter Brzustewicz, Jonathan Castagna and Abram Wiebe all potentially pushing for a role this season, there's plenty of room for improvement with this team.
However, the focus of this prediction is on Gridin and Parekh, as well as recent acquisition Simon Nemec, and while none will break into superstardom this season, with freedom and significant opportunities, all three should end this season with a new career high in points.
9. Flames Add a Surprise, NHL Ready Name at the Deadline
The last few years, the Flames have been busy at the trade deadline, but for the most part, they've been acquiring draft capital and young prospects in exchange for veterans that simply don't fit their timeline. However, this off-season, the Flames added young, NHL ready defenseman Simon Nemec, a former No. 2 overall draft pick, and given their timeline, it's likely not going to stop for General Manager Craig Conroy.
Whether that's a forward with NHL experience such as Shane Wright, Kent Johnson or another name or a surprise player at a different position, only time will tell, but given how intentional Conroy has been during his tenure thus far, he could take a measured risk at the deadline.
As of right now, it's very tough to predict just who this will be, as circumstances around the NHL could change in the next few months, and with so much draft capital and some key veterans to dangle, don't be shocked to see the team make another shock move.
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