Flames Trade Rumors Heating Up as Deadline Nears: Weegar, Kadri, Coleman in the Mix; Parekh Returns
With the NHL trade deadline drawing closer, the Calgary Flames find themselves squarely in the rumor mill - and this time, it’s not just the usual names being floated. The latest buzz surrounds defenseman MacKenzie Weegar, who has reportedly drawn interest from the Ottawa Senators. Add in Nazem Kadri’s openness to a move, Blake Coleman’s growing trade value, and the return of young blueliner Zayne Parekh - and it’s clear that Calgary’s front office could be in for a busy few weeks.
Weegar Drawing Interest from the East
MacKenzie Weegar wasn’t exactly at the top of most trade boards heading into February. The 32-year-old defenseman is locked in through the 2030-31 season, and that kind of long-term commitment usually signals stability. But in today’s NHL, even seemingly immovable pieces can become trade chips - especially when teams like Ottawa come calling.
The Senators are reportedly looking to bolster their top-four on the blue line, and Weegar fits that mold. Despite some struggles this season, his track record speaks for itself: 99 points over the last two seasons and the kind of two-way game that can anchor a defensive unit.
If the Flames decide to move him, they’re not just shipping out a veteran - they’re potentially retooling a core piece of their defense. And with that long-term contract, they’ll be expecting a significant return.
Kadri Open to a New Chapter
Nazem Kadri’s name has been floating in trade talks for a while now, but until recently, it wasn’t clear whether he’d be open to leaving Calgary. That picture is starting to change. According to multiple reports, Kadri hasn’t asked for a trade, but he and his camp have made it clear to the Flames that they’d be open to one.
It’s been a tough season for the 35-year-old center. After a 35-goal campaign in 2024-25, his production has dropped off - just nine goals through 53 games this year.
But context matters. Kadri’s playing on a Flames team that’s struggled to find consistency, and he’s still capable of being a difference-maker in the right situation.
The challenge? His $7 million cap hit.
That’s a big number for any contender to absorb, especially midseason. Still, if a fit is found, Kadri could provide a playoff team with veteran leadership and offensive upside.
Coleman Emerging as Calgary’s Most Moveable Asset
If there’s one name on the Flames’ roster that seems most likely to be wearing a different jersey by March 6, it’s Blake Coleman. The 32-year-old forward is currently sidelined with an injury, but that hasn’t stopped teams from circling.
Coleman has 13 goals in 44 games this season and brings exactly the kind of playoff-tested grit that contenders crave. He’s a versatile forward who can slide up and down the lineup, and with two Stanley Cups under his belt, he knows how to win when it matters most.
What makes him especially attractive on the trade market is his contract: just one year remaining after this season, with a $4.9 million cap hit. If the Flames are willing to retain some salary, that number becomes even more palatable - and the return could be a solid draft pick or a promising young prospect. For a team looking to retool rather than rebuild, that’s the kind of asset management that pays off quickly.
Parekh Returns After AHL Conditioning Stint
Amid the trade chatter, there’s also a bit of good news on the development front. Zayne Parekh is back with the Flames after a brief conditioning stint with the AHL’s Calgary Wranglers - and he made the most of his time there.
In three games with the Wranglers, the 19-year-old defenseman posted two goals and five points, showcasing the offensive instincts that made him such a high-ceiling prospect. With just 11 NHL games under his belt this season, Parekh is still getting his feet wet at the top level, but the opportunity for more minutes is there - especially after the Rasmus Andersson trade.
The Flames are clearly looking to the future, and Parekh could be a big part of it. His return adds another layer of intrigue to the final stretch before the Olympic break.
What’s Next?
Calgary has two games left before the league pauses for the Olympics, both at home. First up: a marquee matchup against Auston Matthews and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Then, it’s another edition of the Battle of Alberta as the Flames host the Edmonton Oilers.
With trade talks swirling and young talent like Parekh stepping back into the fold, the next few weeks could be pivotal - not just for this season, but for the direction of the franchise moving forward.