Calgary Flames: 3 Bold Predictions for the 2022-23 Season

The Calgary Flames have re-tooled on the fly as general manager Brad Treliving was likely the busiest executive this summer. He was dealt with a tough hand, but managed to get passed Johnny Gaudreau walking to Columbus and Matthew Tkachuk essentially demanding a trade to one of five teams. With that all said and done, the Flames are ready to heat back up. Here's three bold predictions for next season in Calgary:

Flames Win the Pacific Division...Again

With Darryl Sutter behind the bench, the Flames are going to be tough to beat. Watch how much influence he has on Nazem Kadri's game and with Jakob Markstrom playing in front of potentially the best defensive group in the league, look for Calgary to win a lot of low-scoring games. Sorry Edmonton, but you're going to have to wait your turn on the division title.

Elias Lindholm Records 95 Points

One of the most underrated players in the game, Elias Lindholm goes about his busines is a quiet and professional manner. After a 82 point season in 2021-22, look for the 27-year-old to take his game to even bigger heights, reaching 95 points in 2022-23.

Likely playing with Jonathan Huberdeau and Tyler Toffoli, it's going to be fun to watch how much chemistry these three can mustard up to start the season. If it's there immediately, Lindholm comes close to 100 points.

Flames Make Blockbuster Deadline Deal

Considering how mostly every Flames player is under contract for the next two seasons, the 2022-23 season will be one Treliving goes all in on. Look for Calgary to move their first round pick and a couple of prospects for elite help. If Patrick Kane approves the move, could be someone like him, or perhaps Joe Pavelski if the Stars struggle this season. Honorable mentions on a lesser scale include Gustav Nyquist of Columbus and Erik Haula in New Jersey. The Flames want to win a Stanley Cup this season and are much closer than they appear.

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