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Calgary Flames General Manager Craig Conroy is actively seeking a trade to enhance the team’s middle-six depth by acquiring a younger right-shot center. The fact they’re looking to add reflects a shift in strategy following the Flames’ strong start to the 2024-25 season.
First reported by Frank Seravalli on Amazon’s Sports on Prime, not only are the Flames not looking to confirm any reputation they are sellers, but the team is looking to add. Instead of just selling off assets, Conroy’s focus is now to bring in pieces that can contribute both now and in the future.
This approach mirrors the path taken by the Montreal Canadiens in recent years as they navigate their own rebuilding process.
The Canadiens have made strategic moves to invest in NHL-ready players who needed a fresh start, such as acquiring Kirby Dach from the Chicago Blackhawks and Patrik Laine from the Columbus Blue Jackets. By no means are the Canadiens a guaranteed playoff contender. That said, moving draft picks and prospects means they aren’t in a full-blown, wait-it-out rebuild either.
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Their trades have been aimed at building a competitive roster while developing younger talent, demonstrating a commitment to immediate impact alongside long-term growth. The Flames are looking to do so the same.
The Flames Are Open to Moving Key Assets Typically Saved for a Rebuild
In an interview with Sportsnet’s Eric Francis, Conroy expressed his desire for a player who possesses NHL experience and fits the Flames’ needs, whether in the top-six or middle-six. He indicated a willingness to part with valuable assets, including a first-round pick, if the right deal presents itself.
It may take some time for that to happen and Conroy has been looking for a while. In the market, since Elias Lindholm was moved to the Canucks (and eventually went to Boston), the Flames have identified a need and they’d like to find a young player to fill it.
While Conroy has been actively engaging in discussions to find a suitable player, reports suggest that other teams may be reluctant to trade younger, NHL-ready talent at this stage.
The Flames’ openness to moving draft picks indicates management is confident that this hot start isn’t a fluke. They believe in this current roster and must feel they are farther along in their rebuild than others believe they are. If Conroy can find the missing pieces to accelerate things, he’s going to keep his options open.
The Canadiens haven’t taken the next step to being a contender yet, but they’ve been praised for some of their out-of-the-box moves and flipping players to improve their draft position. Can the Flames do the same?
