The Calgary Flames are considering signing veteran winger Anthony Duclair to rejuvenate star forward Jonathan Huberdeau, following their past chemistry in Florida. Despite Huberdeau's improved performance in 2024, the Flames are exploring all options to maximize his potential. Flames insider Eric Francis suggests that reconnecting Huberdeau with Duclair, his former line mate, could be the solution. This move could necessitate offloading some wingers from their current depth chart to make room for Duclair.

By the Numbers
  • Jonathan Huberdeau: 44 games, 7 goals, 27 assists for 34 points (2024 season)
  • Anthony Duclair's last cap hit: Approximately $3 million
Yes, But

While adding Duclair could reignite Huberdeau, the Flames' winger depth means they may need to move at least one current player, with Andrew Mangiapane and Andrei Kuzmenko as potential trade candidates. Balancing the roster and salary cap while pursuing this strategy remains a significant challenge.

State of Play
  • Calgary has depth in the winger position with nine players fighting for top-nine spots.
  • Integrating Duclair may disrupt current team chemistry if trades are required to accommodate him.
What's Next

The Flames are also eyeing free agent Sam Reinhart, another former teammate of Huberdeau's, potentially reuniting a top line from their Florida Panthers days. This aggressive strategy indicates a shift from rebuilding to a competitive re-tooling approach.

Bottom Line

The Flames are determined to unlock Huberdeau's potential, viewing the potential acquisition of Duclair as a critical move. This could signal a broader strategy to reunite successful past partnerships and contend more aggressively in the upcoming NHL seasons.