Flames Week Ahead: Schedule and Storylines – Huberdeau Surgery, Coleman Watch and more – The Hockey Writers Calgary Flames Latest News, Analysis and More

The biggest stories this week for the Calgary Flames revolve around season-ending injuries to key veterans and a clear indication from the front office that the roster is about to undergo a major overhaul.

Huberdeau Ready for the season

In a huge blow to the lineup, forward Jonathan Huberdeau was placed on injured reserve (IR) on February 22. He is scheduled for season-ending hip renewal operation in March. While he has struggled this season (25 points in 50 games), his $10.5 million cap hit going to the long-term injury reserve (LTIR) gives general manager (GM) Craig Conroy more than $30 million in usable cap space to arm at the trade deadline.

The Coleman Watch and ‘Fire Sale’

Veteran winger Blake Coleman was activated from IR on February 21, but speculation is at an all-time high. Reports surfaced that his family remained in Texas after the Olympic break rather than returning to Calgary – a move many insiders have made see it as a signal that a transaction is imminent.

Sitting 29th in the league and 11 points shy of a wildcard spot, the Flames are expected to be the most active sellers in the league. In addition to Coleman, names like Nazem Kadri, MacKenzie Weegar and Ryan Lomberg regularly appear in trade rumors for contenders like the Carolina Hurricanes, Detroit Red Wings and Utah Mammoth.

Youth movement

With veterans sidelined or on the move, the focus has shifted to young players like Matt Coronato (who leads the team in goals) and the return of John Beecher, who is expected to see more minutes on the fourth line.

Flames upcoming schedule

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