Flames News & Rumours: Parekh, Kadri, Coleman & More

Calgary Flames' management faces key decisions regarding rookie defenseman Zayne Parekh, Nazem Kadri's future with the team, and Blake Coleman's potential trade value as the team navigates a challenging season.

Zayne Parekh's Development Path

The Flames must decide how to best manage the development of their top prospect, Zayne Parekh. Selected ninth overall in the 2024 NHL Draft, Parekh has played nine NHL games this season. Nearing the 10-game threshold will trigger the first year of his entry-level contract. He is expected to play his 10th game on Sunday. Due to his age and the current CBA rules, Parekh is ineligible to play full-time in the AHL until the 2026-27 season.

Several options are on the table. The Flames could keep Parekh on the NHL roster, but they would need to provide him with sufficient ice time to develop. Another possibility is a conditioning loan with the AHL’s Calgary Wranglers before the 2026 World Junior Championship. A similar path was taken by Seattle Kraken center Shane Wright in 2022-23.

While Parekh has only recorded one assist so far, his underlying analytics are encouraging. When he is on the ice at even strength, the Flames have out-chanced their opponents by a significant margin. However, he has been a healthy scratch in recent games, and the team is wary of damaging his confidence by putting him in a position where he is over his head.

Nazem Kadri Trade Speculation

Trade rumors surrounding Nazem Kadri have been circulating, especially given the current weakness in the center market. Kadri could be a valuable asset for teams seeking a top-six center. It has been suggested that a trade might occur after Kadri plays his 1000th game. Several teams have been mentioned as potential destinations for Kadri, including the Colorado Avalanche, Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Maple Leafs.

The Avalanche are familiar with Kadri, as he played a key role in their 2022 Stanley Cup victory. The Canadiens are looking for a reliable center behind Nick Suzuki. A return to Toronto could also be a possibility, as Maple Leafs fans have expressed strong support for a reunion. However, his $7 million cap hit could be a hurdle for some teams.

Despite the trade speculation, the Flames are reportedly in no rush to move Kadri, who has three years remaining on his contract and enjoys playing in Calgary. The Flames will work with Kadri to ensure that any potential trade is to a team he approves of.

Blake Coleman's Value

Blake Coleman's name has also surfaced in trade discussions. While not as prominent as the Kadri rumors, it is suggested that trading Coleman could be beneficial for the Flames, given their surplus of middle-six wingers. Coleman, who will turn 34 later this month, is viewed as a valuable player due to his consistent performance and leadership qualities. He is relied upon for his defensive contributions, penalty killing abilities, and mentorship of younger players.

In a recent game against the New York Rangers, Coleman scored twice, highlighting his offensive capabilities. He has consistently provided value to the Flames both on and off the ice. Some observers believe Coleman would be a perfect fit for the Toronto Maple Leafs.