Calgary Flames 2023 First Round Selection Is In

The Calgary Flames off-season has been an absolute whirlwind thus far, and after making a solid trade on Tuesday, they have followed it up on Wednesday by waiting to the No. 16 pick in the draft to officially select Vancouver Giants left winger Samuel Honzek. At 6-foot-4, 185 pounds, he certainly fits the profile of Calgary Flames draft picks over the past two decades, and with solid skating, great size and athleticism, he could be a massive part of their future.

While many fans were looking at bigger names like Oliver Moore and Axel Sendin-Pelikka, Honzek is physically capable of competing at the NHL level, and with the team looking to get younger, it’s a solid selection.

In 43 games in the WHL this past season, Honzek managed to rack up 23 goals and 33 assists for 56 points, and after being the focal point of the Giants offensive attack over the past year, he can step into a role on the powerplay whenever he reaches the NHL level. Honzek also has the talent to play any of the three forward positions, and he projects as a top-six player in the NHL, and while the team have plenty of moves still to make this off-season, it’s safe to say that he figures to be a major piece in their re-tool going forward.

So what do you think? Should the Flames have passed on some bigger names? When will we see Honzek crack the NHL? Does the size and skill help him project as a future star in the NHL? As always, let us know all your thoughts in the comments.