This season, the Flames have already had auditions for five rookies: Connor Zary, Dustin Wolf, Ilya Solovyov, Matt Coronato, and Martin Pospisil.
When the pilot saw the passenger list, he could have taken a second look.
When the Calgary Flames departed on this three-game roadie, there were five rookies on the outgoing flight. It has been a long time since the Flames had that many freshmen on the roster during a meaningful stretch.
Even though Matt Coronato was returned Tuesday to the AHL’s Wranglers, a necessity to recall a rearguard because of an injury to Chris Tanev, this is certainly a noteworthy development.
Listed by most appearances so far this season, here is a look at the Flames’ crew of NHL newbies and where they might fit in the long-term plans.
CONNOR ZARY
Age: 22
Position: Left wing
Draft details: First-round pick, No. 24 overall, in 2020
Why he’s here: Zary was ticked when he was among the late wave of training camp cuts and channeled that frustration in the right way, forcing a callup after starting the season on a six-game point-spree with the Wranglers.
Welcome-to-the-NHL moment: The Saskatoon-raised forward introduced himself with a goal on his third shift. In fact, he found the back of the net with his first career shot on goal.
Looking long-term: While many figured Zary had a middle-six ceiling, in part because of concerns about his pace as an up-and-coming pivot, it doesn’t seem far-fetched to think he may have top-line potential on the wing. Since being summoned by the Flames, he has impressed with his creativity and confidence and has capitalized on his opportunities. He scored a batter-up beauty in Monday’s loss to the Colorado Avalanche and is now averaging 0.72 points per game, second to only Connor Bedard among the NHL’s current rookie crop.
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