We are currently in the midst of the NHL offseason, where activity in the hockey world has slowed down considerably following the free agency rush in early July. Attention is now shifting towards the upcoming 2024-25 season for the Calgary Flames. Last season, under new leadership from general manager Craig Conroy and head coach Ryan Huska, the Flames missed the playoffs with a record of 38-39-5. The team has committed to a full rebuilding phase, making numerous trades to rejuvenate the roster with younger talent and focusing on drafting prospects. In contrast to previous years, the Flames have opted for responsible spending in the recent offseason, signing a few economical, short-term contracts.
During the 2023-24 season, the Flames saw notable performances from emerging players like Yegor Sharangovich, Connor Zary, and Martin Pospisil. Looking ahead, prospects such as Matt Coronato, Jakob Pelletier, Sam Honzek, and Zayne Parekh (selected ninth overall in the draft) offer promising potential. Despite these positives, some veteran players had disappointing seasons either in 2023-24 or in recent years, although they possess the skill and experience to rebound. Here are the top candidates from the Flames expected to bounce back in the upcoming 2024-25 season.
Rasmus Andersson, playing as a right defenseman, stands as one of the Flames’ longest-tenured players, having been drafted by the team in the second round of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. At 27 years old, Andersson has played 455 games, second only to team captain Mikael Backlund. Known for his quiet leadership and respected by teammates, Andersson was appointed alternate captain in 2022. In the 2023-24 season, he recorded nine goals and 39 points over 78 games while primarily paired with MacKenzie Weegar or Noah Hanifin on the defensive front. These statistics, though respectable, marked a decline from his career-best performance in the previous season, where he scored 11 goals and notched 49 points. Andersson’s season was affected by lingering issues stemming from a serious incident in Detroit and a suspension for a late-game hit on Patrik Laine of the Columbus Blue Jackets. Consequently, his performance suffered, evident in his career-low plus/minus rating and increased turnovers. With a younger and less experienced defensive lineup anticipated for the upcoming season, Andersson is expected to receive more consistent playing time, potentially leading to improved statistics. Trade speculations surrounding him have emerged due to his contract expiring in two seasons. A standout performance in the 2024-25 season could dispel these rumors and secure him a lucrative contract as he approaches his prime. It is projected that Andersson will reach 45 points this season.
Anthony Mantha, a newcomer to the Flames, joins the team at 29 years old following stints with three other NHL franchises. Initially drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the first round of the 2013 NHL Entry Draft, Mantha has experienced a career marked by injuries and inconsistent performance, never playing a full 82-game season. Last season, split between the Washington Capitals and the Vegas Golden Knights, he recorded 23 goals and 21 assists in 74 games. Mantha’s signing with the Flames, on a one-year contract worth $3.5 million, positions him as a replacement for Andrew Mangiapane, who recently departed the team. It is likely Mantha will be a trade asset during the NHL’s trade deadline. If he maintains his current performance level and stays injury-free, he could contribute significantly to the Flames, potentially achieving a 30-goal or 50-point milestone this season, particularly benefiting from his partnership with Flames forward Jonathan Huberdeau.
Jonathan Huberdeau, playing as a left winger, represents a recurring hope for Flames fans seeking a revival of his career. At 31 years old, Huberdeau is under scrutiny for his substantial eight-year, $84 million contract, viewed by many in the NHL community as burdensome given his recent performance. Despite a stellar season with the Florida Panthers where he achieved 115 points, his production with the Flames has fallen drastically, recording only 55 points in his first season and dropping to 52 points with a significant minus-29 plus/minus rating in the following season. Concerns have arisen regarding Huberdeau’s impact on the team relative to his hefty salary cap hit of $10.5 million annually. However, his performance last season displayed two distinct periods: a slow start with minimal scoring followed by an impressive surge in the latter half of the season. With improved chemistry alongside Zary and Sharangovich and contributions to the struggling power play unit, Huberdeau is anticipated to have better luck with his shooting percentage in the upcoming 2024-25 season. It is predicted that Huberdeau will achieve the 60-point mark this season.
In conclusion, these three players possess considerable talent and potential to make a significant impact in the NHL. Each has demonstrated their ability to be game-changers throughout their careers, offering hope for a resurgence in the upcoming 2024-25 season. As the Flames continue their rebuilding phase, growth and resilience will be key values guiding both their youthful prospects and experienced players. The new season promises fresh opportunities for development and success, highlighting a period of transition and potential for the Flames.
