2. RW Matvei Gridin
In 2024, the Calgary Flames got not one, but two potential stars in the first-round, and early in his career, Matvei Gridin has shown flashes of being a top-line winger for years to come in Calgary. After arriving in Calgary, he tore up the AHL with 10 goals and 30 points in 37 games played, and it's safe to say that he won't be back there again anytime soon.
When he came back to the Flames for his second stint, that's when he took off, with his final 27 games resulting in 5 goals and 17 points, and after creating chemistry with Morgan Frost and Matt Coronato, things are looking up for the young Russian winger. The hope is that he can take a leap and put together a full season in 2026/27, and with the team still looking for long-term help down the middle, getting Gridin rolling is going to go a long way to building out this core, as he has the potential to be an All-Star in the NHL.
1. D Zayne Parekh
The Calgary Flames added several young prospects in the 2026 NHL Draft, but in terms of upside, it's hard to deny that Zayne Parekh remains above the rest given the historically dominant seasons he had in the Ontario Hockey League. His first season at the professional level was an absolute rollercoaster, but once he got settled, it became clear that his confidence and high end skill is something the Flames will value for a long time.
Late in the season, Parekh tallied 4 goals and 8 points, and in the season ahead, he'll start on the left and be paired with either Simon Nemec or Zach Whitecloud, putting him in a chance to succeed. In terms of two-way talent, No. 6 pick Carson Carels is above Parekh, but in terms of pure offensive upside and potential star power, Parekh remains No. 1, with 2026/27 his potential breakout campaign.
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