3 Players Flames Can Sign To Replace The Injured Jakob Pelletier

Jakob Pelletier was expected to make the Flames this season, but an injury has put a stop to that for now. He suffered a shoulder injury that will keep him out indefinitely, but it could cost him the season. With him out, there is a hole on the wing on the fourth line/bottom-six that needs to be filled, so here's a few of the best free agent options.

Nick Ritchie

Now that Nick Ritchie was cut by the St. Louis Blues in training camp, the Flames can swoop in and offer him a league-minimum deal that he might have to accept. At this point the large winger isn't getting any better options. The Flames are familiar with Ritchie from his time on the team after the trade deadline last season. He wasn't bad for them, gives them size, and can produce from the bottom of the lineup. Pelletier was expected to play in the bottom-six, particularly on the fourth line due to lack of space. Ritchie could fill in well there this season.

Phil Kessel

Phil Kessel is still without a team heading into the season. From what he showed last season, the Flames could definitely use the scoring ability that he still possesses. He has made it clear that the veteran doesn't need to keep his iron man streak going if that's what it takes to get signed. He's a three-time Stanley Cup winner, very durable, and has 992 points in his career. Kessel is coming off of 14 goals and 36 points from the bottom-six on the Vegas Golden Knights. This almost seems like a no-brainer if the Flames are trying to get back into the playoffs.

Jesse Puljujarvi

Jesse Puljujarvi just didn't fit in with the Edmonton Oilers, despite a great forechecking ability. He just couldn't finish chances and seems like a capable bottom-six player now because of his play on the defensive side of the puck. The Flames don't necessarily need scoring from their fourth line. With much less responsibility and a focus on defense, Puljujarvi could be a great add for very cheap for the Flames. He has been training and getting back healthy all summer.