The Calgary Flames' 2025-26 season has gotten off to a rocky start, raising questions about the job security of head coach Ryan Huska. After a disappointing first quarter of the season, some observers are wondering if Huska is the right person to lead the team forward.
Huska was named the Flames' head coach in the summer of 2023 after spending several years within the organization. He initially joined the Flames in 2014-2015 as the head coach of their AHL affiliate, where he amassed a 135-118-27 record over four seasons before being promoted to the NHL as an assistant coach. In October 2025, the Flames rewarded Huska with a two-year contract extension after the team nearly reached a playoff spot last season. General Manager Craig Conroy expressed his excitement and belief in Huska at the time, praising his communication, work ethic, and commitment to developing players.
Despite the recent contract extension and the optimism surrounding the team entering the season, the Flames' poor performance has quickly shifted the narrative. The team's inability to consistently score goals and a perceived lack of offensive strategy have become focal points of criticism. Some analysts point to specific in-game decisions, such as line deployment and shootout selections, as evidence of questionable coaching. Others have noted a worrying trend of the team becoming passive and struggling to maintain leads in the third period.
It's important to note that the Flames' struggles are not solely attributable to coaching. Player performance, injuries, and overall team chemistry all play significant roles in a team's success. However, a coach's ability to motivate players, implement effective strategies, and make timely adjustments is crucial, especially when a team faces adversity.
Several factors could influence Huska's future with the Flames. A significant and sustained improvement in the team's performance would undoubtedly ease the pressure. Key to this turnaround would be finding consistent offensive production, tightening up defensively, and demonstrating a greater sense of urgency and competitiveness. Huska's ability to make tactical adjustments and effectively utilize his roster will also be under scrutiny.
Conversely, if the Flames' struggles continue, the calls for a coaching change will likely grow louder. General Manager Craig Conroy would then face a difficult decision: whether to give Huska more time to turn things around or to bring in a new coach to try and spark a change. While Conroy has publicly supported Huska, he also has a responsibility to do what he believes is best for the organization's long-term success.
