As the Calgary Flames gear up for the 2025-26 season, all eyes will be on the ice during the preseason to see who shines. With training camp starting with a split-squad against the Edmonton Oilers on September 21st, here are five players to keep a close watch on.
1. Hunter Brzustewicz: Acquired from the Vancouver Canucks in the Elias Lindholm trade, this right-handed defenseman is vying for a spot on the Flames' roster after spending the previous season with the Calgary Wranglers of the AHL. Brzustewicz made his NHL debut last season, playing one game with the Flames. Known for his transition game and two-way abilities, he's only a couple of seasons removed from a 92-point season as a major junior defenseman. According to a preseason analysis, Brzustewicz is a dynamic playmaker on the back end and could elevate his play with the Flames.
2. Matt Coronato: Drafted in the first round in 2021, Coronato is entering his second full season with the Flames. The smaller forward has accumulated 56 points in 112 NHL games and will be looking to increase his point production as he gains more ice time. Coronato has a knack for standing out in the preseason, leading the NHL in preseason points over the past two years with 12 points in eight games. In his first full NHL season, Coronato ranked third on the Flames in goals (24) and was among the team leaders in points (47), even-strength goals (19), and shots on goal (180).
3. Zayne Parekh: Parekh is a highly touted defensive prospect who led Ontario Hockey League defensemen in goals (33) and points (107 in 61 games) last season. He also scored a goal in his NHL debut last season. The expectation is that Parekh will likely make the Flames roster out of training camp.
4. Adam Klapka: Klapka made an impact for the Flames last season, scoring six goals and ten points in 31 games. At 6'8" and almost 240 pounds, the 24-year-old is a noticeable presence on the ice. His tenacity on the forecheck proved valuable for Calgary's offense.
5. Andrew Basha: Basha is a Calgary-born forward prospect drafted in recent years. With the Flames' forward group in flux, Basha has an opportunity to make an early impression during the preseason.
