Calgary Flames Intensify Trade Discussions
The Calgary Flames are experiencing intensified interest in winger Blake Coleman and defenseman Zach Whitecloud as the NHL trade deadline approaches. With the team currently sitting near the bottom of the Pacific Division with a record of 24-29-7, the Flames are exploring options to reshape their roster.
Blake Coleman, 34, has recorded 13 goals and nine assists in 48 games this season, maintaining a plus-9 differential. He is under contract for the next season with an average annual value of $4.9 million. Meanwhile, 29-year-old Zach Whitecloud has contributed two goals and 11 points over 59 games this season, with a cap hit of $2.75 million as he enters the second year of a six-year, $16.5 million contract.
Recent trade activity by the Flames, including the move of defenseman MacKenzie Weegar to the Mammoth of Utah in exchange for three second-round picks, prospect Jonathan Castagna, and defenseman Olli Maata, indicates a willingness to convert established players into future assets.
According to Darren Dreger, the chances of Coleman being traded before the 3:00 p.m. ET deadline are estimated at 40%. He noted that while offers for Coleman exist, they have not yet been compelling enough to prompt a deal.
General Manager Craig Conroy and his counterpart in Montreal, Kent Hughes, have shown interest in Coleman, which could play a significant role in any potential transaction. The Flames have received offers but have not deemed them sufficient at this stage.
As the trade deadline approaches, activity is expected to intensify, with teams looking to finalize decisions by 3:00 p.m. ET on Friday. The Flames’ current position in the standings has prompted them to consider all options to improve their roster.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding specific offers or potential trades involving Coleman and Whitecloud, but the situation remains fluid as teams assess their needs heading into the final stretch of the season.