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Four Takeaways From the Calgary Flames Pre-Season Loss to the Seattle Kraken

We got our first look at the Calgary Flames on Sunday night, and in a 4-2 loss, there's plenty to take away from the teams first pre-season matchup.
ByNathan Smith
Aydar Suniev of the Calgary Flames
Aydar Suniev of the Calgary Flames | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
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Samuel Honzek is on the Verge of a Breakout Campaign

Samuel Honzek, Calgary Flames
Samuel Honzek of the Calgary Flames | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

In training camp these past two off-seasons, Samuel Honzek has been a standout, and after scoring a brilliant pre-season goal in 2025, many believed he was primed for a breakout. In 18 games a year ago, Honzek had 2 goals and 4 points before an injury ended his campaign, and while it was disappointing, he has clearly continued to develop.

For the Flames in this one, Honzek was a clear standout, as he created some massive opportunities using his speed and physicality, and while he may never end up as a top-line player in the NHL, he's showing that he's got the talent to be a very, very good middle-six player.

2026/27 won't be the last opportunity for Honzek to be a true NHLer and show his ability, but it's the perfect chance given how the team will be prioritizing the future, and if this pre-season game is anything to go by, the potential is there for him to solidify himself in a big way this season.

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