The 2026 NHL Draft is still quite some time away, but for the Calgary Flames, it's a night that could change a long middling franchise for years and years to come. The team unfortunately didn't land the No. 1 or even the No. 2 overall pick, but instead, they fell back two picks to No. 6 overall, with fans disappointed in the outcome.
However, there's still going to be some good, and even great players available when the Flames are officially on the board, with many expecting it to be a choice between the trio of Viggo Bjorck, Tynan Lawrence or Carson Carels.
The first two would fit an organizational need for the Flames, but in Carels, the team could land their x-factor LHD for years to come, and given his relationship with Zayne Parekh, it's a match purely made in heaven. That relationship from Team Canada at the World Juniors came up in Carels recent interview with Flames Talk, with the 17-year old noting that he'd be excited to join the C of Red.
"I'd be ecstatic for sure. I think Zayne would probably be the first person who calls me, he'd be over the moon. I'd be really excited and it's nice that I know the rink now, playing some games there, and I think I'd be really comfortable there."Carson Carels
🔥 What if…?
— Sportsnet 960 (@Sportsnet960) May 12, 2026
Top NHL Draft prospect Carson Carels knows there’s a chance Calgary calls his name next month. He joined @Fan960Steinberg and @Fan960Logan on #Flames Talk!
LISTEN: https://t.co/BEswDcFxCo pic.twitter.com/eDICvM0rPA
This past season with Prince George in the WHL, the 6-foot-2, 200 pound star showed off his immense talent on both ends of the ice, posting 20 goals and 73 points in just 58 games. Then, in the playoffs, he had 1 goal and 10 points in 10 games played, and given how explosive, physically gifted and naturally talented he is, he would be a great pick for the Flames.
Sure, the need for a center is the most pressing issue in Calgary, but with the right side solidified (Parekh, Brzustewicz, Whitecloud), it's time for the team to start building on the left side behind Kevin Bahl. Carels may not be the most popular pick for the Flames fans, as most may want them to look towards Bjorck and his upside as a potential 1C, but given his excitement, his talent and his relationship with Parekh, this could be a dream scenario for the Flames.
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