3 Bold Predictions for the Calgary Flames 2024-25 Season

The expectations are as low as they've ever been for the Calgary Flames. GM Craig Conroy has been re-tooling on the fly and made several trades throughout the last year, leaving a roster with several holes entering the 2024-25 season.

The Flames finished 38-39-5 last year and if they're able to hover around the .500 mark this season, it's going to be considered a win for the fan base. While they still have a few veterans who can move the needle and push them to sniff a Stanley Cup Playoff spot, it's likely going to be a long year in Calgary.

Here's three bold predictions heading into 2024-25:

Connor Zary Hits 50 Points

The 23-year-old forward burst onto the scene last season in Calgary, finishing the year with 34 points in 63 games. 50 points should be within reach in what will be Zary's first full season in the show. The former 2020 first-round pick is going to have a golden opportunity to contribute this year, and should see top-six ice-time, along with consistent time on the power play. He's as offensively gifted as they come and will quickly become one of the Flames' next wave of core talent.

Dustin Wolf Becomes Flames' Starter

While Wolf may have dominated the AHL for a couple of seasons, the production hasn't translated to NHL success. Until now. Wolf will split time early on with Daniel Vladar and potentially Devon Cooley, but by the end of the season, look for Wolf to become the #1 netminder in Calgary. A bit undersized at just 6-foot, Wolf has to rely on quickness, athleticism and his ability to read the play to be effective. Wolf went 7-7-1 last year, and look for him to hit the 25-30 win mark this season with the Flames. 

Nazem Kadri Gets Traded

Despite saying all the right things and owning a no-movement clause until 2026-27, Kadri has been linked to offseason trade rumors. With the Flames likely going to be on the outside looking in, around the trade deadline in March, Kadri could very well be moved to a contender before the year is out. The 33-year-old has four seasons left on his deal, at $7 million AAV, which he returns to his point-per-game production, will have a long list of suitors interested in acquiring the pesky centre. Kadri has all the say, for now, so it's going to be interesting to see how things play out closer to the trade deadline.

Photo credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images