Luke Hughes’ contract stalemate with the New Jersey Devils heads toward training camp as GM Tom Fitzgerald seeks a deal that fits both today’s roster needs and future cap realities. The piece notes rising caps shaping a buyer’s market and internal limits, while Dawson Mercer and Jeremy Swayman’s training camp absence adds leverage dynamics. Calgary’s Zary, Backlund, and Andersson; plus Canucks' Quinn Hughes, Rangers, Canadiens and Leafs are cited as comp benchmarks in a broader NHL cap landscape.

Calgary Flames and Connor Zary remain at an unsigned RFA standstill, with dispute over term vs. price keeping him in limbo as business picks up. Mikael Backlund, in the final year of his deal and open to Canada-only terms, weighs his future with the team while Rasmus Andersson’ s status looms on a potential trade. The piece also flags Anaheim Ducks and Los Angeles Kings as broader league players in the rumor mill, underscoring Calgary’s tightrope between asset value and roster continuity.

The Calgary Flames are actively seeking to bolster their center depth as they prepare for the upcoming season. With Nazem Kadri and Mikael Backlund firmly positioned in their 30s, the organizational strategy may involve promoting Connor Zary, a young talent who has been playing on the wing but could transition to center. Recent discussions mentioned Morgan Frost, a pending RFA who underperformed after his acquisition from the Philadelphia Flyers. The Flames might offer him a deal based on his potential, especially considering their need for centers. Additionally, the Flames have set their sights on drafting prospects like Jack Nesbitt and Cole Reschny to enhance their center options.

In other news, the Ottawa Senators are working on retaining Claude Giroux, who is keen to stay with the team. Informal discussions have taken place regarding a potential short-term deal, possibly in the $3 to $4 million range, drawing comparisons to Joe Pavelski's contract. The Senators' focus is also on signing RFAs like Fabian Zetterlund while considering high-impact forwards via trade or free agency.

The Calgary Flames ended their NHL regular season on a high note, defeating the Los Angeles Kings 5-1, with Nazem Kadri netting two goals. Sam Morton, Zayne Parekh, and Mikael Backlund also contributed to the scoreline. This victory brought pride to the Flames, who missed the playoffs for the third consecutive year.

The Kings, despite the loss, matched their franchise record with 48 wins and 105 points. Taylor Ward, in his NHL debut, scored the only goal for the Kings in the dying minutes of the game. With their first playoff series against the Edmonton Oilers set for Monday, the Kings enter as one of the hottest teams, having won eight of their last ten games.

The Calgary Flames delivered a standout performance against the Minnesota Wild, securing a crucial 4-2 victory that tightens their grip on a playoff spot in the Western Conference. Mikael Backlund opened the scoring with a goal in the first period, setting the tone for a dominant Flames outing. Rookie goaltender Dustin Wolf's impressive saves, including a strong penalty kill, bolstered Calgary's defense as they built an early 3-0 lead. Nazem Kadri's power-play goal marked his 32nd of the season, showcasing the Flames' offensive depth. Ryan Lomberg added the icing on the cake with a breakaway goal, electrifying the home crowd. With this win, Calgary stays within striking distance of the wild-card spots, and Head Coach Ryan Huska emphasizes the importance of maintaining momentum heading into the final games of the season.