As the NHL free agency period approaches, the Calgary Flames face crucial decisions regarding their roster, particularly concerning their pending free agents. With just three weeks to go, the silence around new deals for these players is deafening, signaling potential changes ahead for the team.
Dan Vladar’s Future Uncertain
Dan Vladar, who has been an integral part of the Flames for the past four years, seems poised to test the market as a free agent. Vladar has logged 100 games and established himself as a reliable backup goalie, but the franchise might be gearing up for a shift in that position. According to insights from FlamesTalk, the Flames are prepared for the possibility that Vladar may not return.
“We have put offers on the table to Dan Vladar, but nothing has been agreed upon as of yet. The door isn’t completely closed on his return, but the Flames are recognizing that contingency plans need to be considered,” our source noted.
Vladar’s performance down the stretch last season kept the Flames in playoff contention, but with young star Dustin Wolf set as the franchise’s future starter, Vladar may seek a situation where he can earn more playing time. The Flames have more than likely presented one- and two-year contract options, yet with Vladar desiring significant backup money, it’s a balancing act for the team.
If Vladar does move on, Calgary might find itself in search of a new backup. Interestingly, they’ve already shown interest in former Colorado Avalanche goalie Ivan Prosvetov, hinting at a proactive approach to address this potential gap.
Justin Kirkland’s Bid for Continuity
Justin Kirkland’s impressive season last year was overshadowed by a midseason injury, but there appears to be mutual interest in his return. Kirkland found a niche on the Flames’ fourth line and proved to be a valuable depth option. Current discussions indicate that both Kirkland and the Flames have a desire to continue their partnership.
“He wants to be here… but there are plenty of teams interested if something doesn’t happen in Calgary,” our source suggests, emphasizing that Kirkland won’t settle for an NHL minimum two-way deal. The Flames are aware of his value and it’s likely they will meet his contract demands. Given that Kirkland’s anticipated AAV is under $1.5 million, maintaining his presence as a Flame seems like a wise investment without considerable risk.
Kevin Rooney’s Tenure Likely Concluded
Kevin Rooney, who has served as the Flames’ fourth-line center for the past three seasons, appears to be moving on. As detailed in recent discussions, the prospects of Rooney returning are extremely limited, with the Flames actively looking for a new center to fill that role.
“I think Kevin Rooney is going to walk,” was the straightforward assessment shared. This makes sense from a strategic standpoint; even in his best form, Rooney hasn’t consistently risen above an average fourth-line player, and the Flames boast other options — whether in-house or through signing Kirkland — that could add a more dynamic skill set.
Joel Hanley’s Departure Seems Imminent
Joel Hanley, a depth defenseman acquired off waivers, is also likely to be moving on. The Flames initially resisted trade offers for him at the deadline, which now seems puzzling as they prepare to let him walk for nothing in free agency.
While there’s no definitive read on Hanley’s market standing, the expectation is that he could attract interest for a multi-year deal elsewhere, especially having never been in a better negotiating position as an unrestricted free agent. Rather than retain an aging depth player, the Flames could look to promote younger talent from their AHL roster to fill that void and develop prospects into solid contributors.
Calgary’s Cautious Approach
The lack of recent movements concerning Calgary’s free agents isn’t particularly surprising, but clarifying insights point to a more calculated strategy. As free agency draws near, all eyes will be on how the Flames navigate their roster. The anticipation is building, and while the current situation may not be reshuffling the deck dramatically just yet, the outcomes in the coming weeks will undoubtedly shape the Flames’ future direction.
