The Calgary Flames came into the season having to make some big decisions on their crop of pending Free Agents, and after moving Nikita Zadorov and Elias Lindholm, the next big domino has officially fallen.
An absolute warrior.
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) February 29, 2024
Thank you for everything, Tanny! pic.twitter.com/GvJwmhcZ0J
After months of speculation, the Flames officially traded defenseman Chris Tanev to the Dallas Stars, giving him a fantastic chance to make a push at the Stanley Cup Finals in 2023-24. So what exactly did the Flames get in return?
WE HAVE A TRADE TO ANNOUNCE!
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) February 29, 2024
We have acquired defenceman Artem Grushnikov, a 2024 second round pick in the #NHLDraft, and a conditional third round pick in 2026!#Flames | @original16beer pic.twitter.com/A4YxIhHG8g
While the Flames were pushing for a first-round pick, they ultimately settled on a second-round pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, with a conditional third-round pick in 2026 (the Flames get this pick if the Stars make the Stanley Cup Finals). On top of that, Calgary landed 20-year old defenseman Artem Grushnikov, who is in the midst of his first season with the Texas Stars (the Stars AHL affiliate).
Welcome to the #CofRed, Artem! pic.twitter.com/CTMkbtwxrl
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) February 29, 2024
Now that Tanev has been moved, all eyes turn to Noah Hanifin and Jacob Markstrom, and while this return may seem underwhelming, Craig Conroy is clearly building for the future, and this move will hopefully be a big part of that future for the Flames.