The 2026/27 Calgary Flames aren't going to be the most exciting team in the National Hockey League, and given that they're undergoing a rebuild truly for the first time in a long, long time, it's going to be one of the worst seasons in franchise history.
For the Flames, the future is where their priorities lie, and with most of their prospects in the NCAA and junior leagues around the world, it's going to be some time before the organization finally see steps forward towards a positive future.
While most of their prospects and young players won't be available to watch in person, the Calgary Wranglers can be seen down at the Saddledome as well, and while there's plenty of veterans on that team, the following five players are ones you should keep an eye on for the future.
5. Jonathan Castagna
Jonathan Castagna was a huge piece of the Mackenzie Weegar trade with the Utah Mammoth, and after finishing out his final year at Cornell in 2025/26, he has signed his Entry Level Deal, and will find himself as a key piece of the Wranglers lineup. Sure, he can make a push for an NHL roster spot in training camp, but if not, he's likely to centre one of the middle-six lines for the Wranglers, and given his abilities as a two-way player, his development could be a story that defines the organization this season.
After winning the ECAC Defensive Forward of the Year, it's clear why the Flames targeted Castagna, as he profiles as a perfect middle-six centre in the organization, and with 15 goals and 34 points in 34 games played, he's not a slouch offensively either.
At 6-foot-2, 200 pounds, Castagna stands out for his physicality as well, and while he may never become a star at the NHL level, given how he's developed across several years in college hockey, don't be shocked to see him adjust to the AHL quickly and make a push for the NHL down the stretch.
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