The Calgary Flames are facing a classic NHL deadline dilemma - hang on to a respected veteran leader or cash in while his value is sky-high. Blake Coleman is at the center of that decision, and while the team would like to keep him, they’re not locking the door on trade talks either.
According to multiple insiders, Calgary GM Craig Conroy is keeping his options open. If the right offer comes along - the kind that forces your hand - the Flames might have to listen. And with interest in Coleman reportedly heating up, a move isn’t just possible, it’s starting to feel like a real possibility.
Here’s the context: the Flames are in transition mode. They’re looking to get younger, more flexible, and reshape their roster for the future.
Coleman, along with Nazem Kadri, is one of those veteran names that naturally draws attention when teams go shopping ahead of the trade deadline. He brings playoff experience, a relentless two-way game, and leadership that doesn’t show up on the stat sheet but is felt every day in the locker room.
That’s why this situation is so intriguing. Coleman isn’t just a guy with value on the ice - he’s a culture guy, a tone-setter.
And that’s exactly why Calgary isn’t in any rush to move him. As one insider put it, the Flames are “quite ready to keep Blake Coleman.”
He’s earned that level of respect within the organization.
But the reality of the trade market is this: if a contender sees Coleman as the missing piece and is willing to overpay, Calgary has to consider it. Especially if they’re serious about turning the page and building something new.
Now, Coleman does have some control here. He’s got a 10-team no-trade list, and it’s not yet clear how much flexibility he’s willing to show.
Montreal’s been floated as a potential destination, but there’s skepticism about whether that match makes sense. What we do know is that any team that wants him will have to pay a premium.
As one analyst put it, “you’re overpaying to move that player out of Calgary, because that’s how respected he is by the Flames.”
Tampa Bay has also been mentioned as a potential fit - and that tracks. Coleman was a key piece of their back-to-back Cup runs, and if the Lightning believe they can make another push, bringing him back into the fold would make a lot of sense.
As for Coleman himself? Word is, he’s content in Calgary.
He’s not pushing for a move, and he wouldn’t be disappointed if nothing materializes. That says a lot about his mindset and his role on this team.
So where does that leave us? With a veteran forward who’s still playing at a high level, valued by his team, and drawing interest across the league.
The Flames aren’t shopping him, but they’re listening. And as the deadline creeps closer, this one could go right down to the wire.