The Calgary Flames are gearing up to hit the ice again after a break for the 2026 Olympic Winter Games. Their last outing saw them edge out their provincial rivals, the Edmonton Oilers, with a thrilling 4-3 victory on February 4. But as they prepare to face the San Jose Sharks on February 26, the Flames' lineup might have a fresh look due to some injuries and strategic changes.
Here's a glimpse at how the forward lines could shape up based on their first practice back on February 18:
Left Wing - Center - Right Wing
- Yegor Sharangovich - Mikael Backlund - Matt Coronato
- Connor Zary - Nazem Kadri - Joel Farabee
- Blake Coleman - Morgan Frost - Matvei Gridin
- Ryan Lomberg - John Beecher - Adam Klapka
Top Six: Time to Step Up
The Flames' top two lines remain unchanged from their last game. However, there's room for improvement offensively.
Captain Mikael Backlund and leading goal scorer Matt Coronato have managed just two points in their last five games. Yegor Sharangovich hasn't found the scoresheet since January 21.
In contrast, the second line was firing on all cylinders before the break. Joel Farabee has three points in his last three outings, and Nazem Kadri, the team's top point-getter, has four in the same span.
Connor Zary also chipped in with a goal in their last game before the Olympics.
Huberdeau's Absence Opens Doors
Jonathan Huberdeau, a key offensive force, is out for the season due to an upcoming hip resurfacing surgery. As the Flames' highest-paid player, his absence is significant. Yet, this creates an opportunity for younger talents to step up and fill the void.
Gridin Ready for a Bigger Role
Matvei Gridin could be the answer to replacing Huberdeau's playmaking prowess. Fresh off a stellar performance at the AHL All-Star Game, Gridin has shown glimpses of brilliance in his 13 NHL appearances this season. More ice time could be just what he needs to shine.
Coleman's Comeback
After recovering from an upper-body injury, Blake Coleman is back in action. He shed his non-contact jersey during the February 18 practice and was activated from injury reserve on February 20. Slated to join Gridin and Morgan Frost on the third line, Coleman’s return is timely, especially with the trade deadline looming on March 6.
Pospisil's Uncertain Status
Martin Pospisil, who competed for Slovakia in the Olympics, might not be ready to suit up for the Flames on February 26. He missed Slovakia’s Bronze Medal Game due to illness and has been battling a nagging injury. His availability remains in question.
Beecher's Fresh Legs
Even if Pospisil is cleared to play, head coach Ryan Huska might opt for fresh legs. John Beecher, sidelined since January 3, has been activated from injury reserve and could replace Pospisil. If Beecher takes the ice on February 26, expect him to center the fourth line with the hard-hitting duo of Ryan Lomberg and Adam Klapka.
Looking Ahead
Losing a veteran like Huberdeau is a setback, but it paves the way for players like Gridin to prove their mettle in the NHL. As the Flames prepare for their clash against the Sharks, the returns of Coleman and Beecher might just provide the spark needed to propel this team through the season's final stretch.