Hunter Brzustewicz
Matvei Gridin was a major piece of the Elias Lindholm trade to Vancouver, but he wasn't the only player we saw from that deal in 2025/26, as Hunter Brzustewicz showed his talent and versatility to cement himself as a key piece of the Flames blue line. In the OHL, Brzustewicz topped out at 92 points in a season, and while we didn't see that offensive flair consistency, he managed to play a safe, responsible game that allowed him to play up and down the lineup.
In 34 games played, Brzustewicz tallied 2 goals and 7 points, and late in the season, his offensive game came along, with the right side of Whitecloud, Parekh and Brzustewicz seemingly locked in for next season. Ultimately, the 21-year old gained some very valuable experience this season, and while the results haven't come yet, with a consistent partner and opportunities on the powerplay, it's only a matter of time.
Grade: B-
Joel Hanley
Coming into the season, this Flames defence was full of veterans, and late into the season, he was still playing a significant role before an injury ended his 2025/26 campaign. In that time, he played his role well, and while he was receiving plenty of criticism as a result, he did what he needed to do to remain in the lineup every night.
During the season, Hanley appeared in 66 games, tallying 7 assists and a -5 differential in that time, and while he was necessary at the beginning of the year, by the end, his role had become rather redundant. On paper, this Flames team is now set on the blue line, and while Hanley may be done playing a significant role for the Flames, he may get an opportunity again next season after some steady performances in 2025/26.
Grade: C
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