Draft Nuggets and Deadline Decisions: A Flames Outlook for 2026

This year, I’m starting the draft selection early! In this article, I am looking for some nuggets in the draft. These are players the Flames might be interested in during the third round or later. I will try to highlight players who don’t get much ink.

Now, let’s get on with what the Flames might be doing over the next week before the deadline. I have heard so much speculation this season about certain players.

Colin Fitzgerald

Colin is a solid two-way centre with some offensive drive. He is defensively sound and works hard. He plays a good physical game and works hard for the loose puck. He has tons of potential as a third-line centre. Colin has a hard shot and could get some garbage goals.

Nazem Kadri

Who wouldn’t want a veteran who knows how to win? Kadri is a solid option for teams in need of a third-line centre with a scoring touch. The teams I think could use him are Montreal, Dallas, Minnesota, Colorado, and Detroit.

Blake Coleman

What I really like about Blake is his versatility, his ability to play forward and centre, which makes him valuable to teams. He is an excellent penalty killer and will help any team in the defensive game. He was on track for a thirty-goal season. The teams that I think he fits with are Tampa, the Islanders, and, of course, the Dallas Stars.

Mackenzie Weegar

Mackenzie is a hot commodity in this deadline. Top pairing/second pairing, who could work on the power play. He is reliable on both ends, which will help a contender in all aspects of the game. Two teams, especially, will need him: Detroit and Ottawa.

Final word

The Flames have to develop a plan if they want to be competitive next season. The Flames have a great statement to make for the future. The 2026 draft is filled with prospects who can play for years to come. Really depends on how patient they are.

Randy 

The Churn Report: Who’s On The Move—and Who’s Safe?

There are a few topics I want to talk about in this article. So let’s get on with it, shall we? No use beating around the bush.

Ethan Wyttenbach

Ethan is making quite a statement around the hockey world. He is a highly gifted winger with strong offensive skills. He has an explosive shot, and his quick release often fools goalies. His hockey IQ is off the charts as he creates scoring chances. His ability to get to the open ice for scoring chances reminds me of someone. Do not be deceived by his size; His intensity, guts, and will make up for his diminutive stature.

There are similarities between Ethan’s and Johnny’s size and their manner of play. There is a lot of evidence to back that up this season. I asked around about him, and this is the quote I got back:

“I do not doubt that he is a on-the-rise prospect. Can we please put the brakes on that comparison already? It’s only his first season. Let’s see how he does the next couple of seasons.”

I do not doubt that the Flames are happy with Ethan. But they will take their time with him and not rush him. I have no doubt he has a good chance to play with the Flames.

Team Tank to take a Holliday: Devin Cooley

Devin might be a huge obstacle to the “team tank.” Cooley has been nothing but excellent. He is a terrific stand-up goaltender with great vision. He is playing the best of his career, and he has caught my eye—and I am sure others’ as well. But someone has to send him the memo. :)

I wish I had more on the plight of Coleman and Kadri. I don’t have any info on either of them.

We have heard that half the team is getting inquiries. Well, maybe not that many, but quite a few teams are inquiring about them. There are even more players to be added to the rumour board:

Zach Whitecloud

A big, stay-at-home defenceman who could be an excellent piece for several teams.

Mackenzie Weeger

The latest rumour is that the Senators want him.

Joe Farabee and Morgan Frost

A couple of young forwards who could help several teams in the stretch run.