What’s Next for the Flames? Trade Deadline Buzz Heating Up in Calgary
With the Rasmus Andersson trade now in the rearview mirror, the Calgary Flames are shifting their focus to what’s shaping up to be a pivotal stretch ahead of the trade deadline. There’s no shortage of interest around the league in what Calgary might do next, and GM Craig Conroy is sitting in a position of leverage - armed with cap flexibility, a few desirable veterans, and a clear eye on the future.
Let’s break down the latest rumblings surrounding the Flames, what makes sense, and which moves could help shape the next phase of this team’s rebuild.
Kadri, Coleman Drawing Interest
Blake Coleman and Nazem Kadri are both surfacing as potential trade targets, and it’s easy to see why. They’re proven playoff performers, and teams with Cup aspirations are always looking to add experience, grit, and versatility down the stretch.
For Calgary, the question isn’t whether they can move these contracts - it’s whether they should. They’ve got the cap space to absorb bad money in return, which gives them an edge in negotiations.
But Conroy won’t be giving these guys away for free. If a contender wants Kadri or Coleman, it’s going to take a serious offer - the kind that includes high-end futures or a premium pick.
This isn’t just about dumping contracts. It’s about maximizing value and continuing to build a sustainable core for the future.
Mangiapane-for-Sharangovich Swap?
Here’s a potential twist in the Battle of Alberta - a swap that would send Andrew Mangiapane back to Calgary in exchange for Yegor Sharangovich.
Mangiapane’s stint in Edmonton hasn’t gone as hoped. With just six goals and 12 points in 49 games, he’s struggled to find his footing. He’s under contract through next season, which might make him more palatable for the Flames than Sharangovich, who’s just one year into a five-year deal.
Sharangovich has been solid - 11 goals and 20 points in 52 games - but he hasn’t exactly cemented himself as a core piece moving forward. A trade here would be more about flexibility than production. Calgary could free up cap space and potentially open a roster spot for one of their young forwards knocking on the door.
The sticking point? Retained salary.
The Flames only have one retention slot left, and it’s likely being saved for a bigger fish - potentially Kadri. Unless Edmonton is willing to take on Sharangovich’s full cap hit, this deal might not get off the ground.
Still, it’s a logical move if the retention piece isn’t required.
Coleman to Carolina?
Here’s where things get really interesting. The Carolina Hurricanes are reportedly looking to move on from Jesperi Kotkaniemi, who’s in year four of an eight-year deal. His production has cratered - just two goals and nine points in 36 games - and he’s become more of a cap burden than a contributor.
Enter Blake Coleman.
Coleman has been one of Calgary’s most consistent forwards and is exactly the kind of player Carolina could use to reinforce their middle six. He brings playoff pedigree, defensive responsibility, and a scoring touch that doesn’t rely on power-play minutes.
For Calgary, taking back Kotkaniemi’s contract isn’t ideal, but it’s a move they can afford - especially if it comes with a sweetener. A 2027 first-round pick would be a significant asset for a team focused on the long game. The Flames have the cap space, the patience, and the incentive to make this kind of deal work.
Lomberg Reunion?
Ryan Lomberg heading back to Florida feels like a natural fit. He’s been in and out of the lineup this season, and Calgary has young forwards ready to step in full-time. A move here wouldn’t shake up the roster in a major way, but it would give Lomberg a fresh start and open up minutes for someone from the Wranglers who’s earned a shot.
No retention, no long-term cap implications - just a clean, simple transaction that helps both sides.
Flipping Whitecloud?
The Andersson trade brought in Zach Whitecloud, but his stay in Calgary might be short-lived. With the Flames already clearing space on the blue line - Jeremie Poirier was also moved recently - there’s a growing sense that Whitecloud could be flipped again before the deadline.
It’s a classic pit stop scenario. Calgary adds a player in a larger deal, then moves him again for futures once the dust settles. If they can turn Whitecloud into a pick or a prospect, it would further solidify the return on the Andersson trade and continue to streamline the defensive depth chart.
Is Weegar on the Block?
This one stings a little. MacKenzie Weegar has been a leader in the room and a key figure on the back end since arriving in Calgary.
But this season hasn’t gone his way. His play has dipped, and with several years left on his deal, the Flames have to think long and hard about his long-term fit.
If a team is willing to offer a 2026 first-round pick, that’s tough to pass up. Calgary’s front office has shown they can draft well under Conroy, and adding another first would be a big boost to the rebuild.
It’s not an easy decision - Weegar means a lot to the team and the city - but if the right offer comes along, the Flames have to consider it.
The Bigger Picture
Calgary is in a flexible position heading into the deadline. They’re not in win-now mode, but they’re also not in full teardown territory. That middle ground gives them options - they can weaponize their cap space, take on unwanted contracts, and stockpile picks and prospects without rushing the process.
The Andersson trade was the first domino. Don’t be surprised if a few more fall in the coming weeks. Whether it’s Kadri, Coleman, or even Weegar, the Flames are listening - and if the price is right, they’re ready to make moves that keep the rebuild rolling in the right direction.