Predicting point totals in the NHL is always a tricky exercise, but as the 2025-26 season approaches, it's time to analyze the Calgary Flames' forward group and project their potential offensive output. Several factors influence these projections, including player skill, linemates, ice time, power-play opportunities, and of course, potential injuries.
Matt Coronato: After signing a six-year extension this past summer, expectations are high for Coronato. ESPN projects a significant leap for him, estimating 36 goals and 34 assists for a total of 70 points, potentially leading the Flames in scoring. While this might be optimistic, Coronato is expected to take a step forward and could land closer to the 60-point range. NHL.com is slightly more conservative, projecting 56 points.
Nazem Kadri: Coming off a career-best 35-goal season in 2024-25, Kadri is expected to remain a key offensive contributor. ESPN projects a slight dip to 32 goals and 34 assists, totaling 66 points. This seems reasonable, considering his age and the potential for slight regression. However, Kadri's role as the team's number-one center should ensure he remains a significant offensive force, potentially exceeding 60 points. NHL.com projects 65 points for Kadri.
Jonathan Huberdeau: After a disappointing start to his Flames tenure, Huberdeau showed improvement last season. ESPN projects further progress, with 23 goals and 41 assists for 64 points. This would be his best season as a Flame. However, this projection relies on Huberdeau maintaining a high shooting percentage and finding chemistry with his linemates. NHL.com is less optimistic, projecting 57 points and considering him a bounce-back candidate.
Yegor Sharangovich: Sharangovich experienced a significant drop in production last season, but a bounce-back is anticipated. ESPN projects 20 goals and 21 assists for 41 points. This seems like a fair assessment, as Sharangovich has the potential to contribute more offensively than he showed last year.
Morgan Frost: After a somewhat underwhelming 2024-25 season, Frost is projected to improve. ESPN estimates 15 goals and 25 assists for 40 points. Some believe this is a conservative estimate and that Frost could reach closer to his career-high of 46 points. With increased responsibility within the Flames' offense, Frost has the opportunity to exceed these projections. NHL.com considers Frost a breakout candidate with a projection of 43 points.
Other Forwards: Several other Flames forwards could contribute offensively. Connor Zary is seen as a breakout candidate with a projected 42 points. Blake Coleman is considered a deep sleeper with a projection of 40 points.
Rookies and New Additions: The potential impact of rookies and new additions shouldn't be ignored. Zayne Parekh, a highly touted defensive prospect known for his offensive abilities, could make an impact if he makes the team.
Overall Offensive Outlook: The Flames' offensive output in 2025-26 remains somewhat uncertain. The team struggled to score last season, and their success will depend on several factors, including the performance of their key players, the emergence of young talent, and their ability to generate more offense as a team. While some projections suggest improvement, the Flames will need consistent contributions from their forward group to achieve a higher level of offensive success.
