Calgary’s season ended earlier than they hoped, but the Flames season was still a success. They tied the St. Louis Blues with 96 points but missed the playoffs on a tiebreaker. While missing the postseason stings, there’s a lot to be optimistic about. Calgary took a major step in its rebuild, with several young players showing growth, a winning culture taking root, and key weaknesses addressed.
Dustin Wolf Emerging as Franchise Goalie
Dustin Wolf’s breakout 2024–25 season has been a beacon of hope for the Calgary Flames, signalling the emergence of a potential franchise goaltender. After the offseason trade of veteran Jacob Markstrom, Wolf seized the starting role, delivering a standout rookie campaign. He posted a .915 save percentage and a 2.52 goals-against average, ranking among the NHL’s top goaltenders and recording three shutouts—the most by a rookie in Flames history. His 22 wins in 38 appearances were instrumental in keeping Calgary in the playoff hunt, despite the team’s challenges in scoring and defensive depth.
Wolf’s rise is especially meaningful after a roster overhaul that saw veterans like Markstrom, Lindholm, Tanev, and Hanifin move on. His steady presence in net gives Calgary long-term stability and a foundation to build on. Securing a franchise goaltender is essential for any contender, making this Flames season a success despite the standings.
Young Forwards Take Key Steps
Several young forwards proved they belong in the NHL, led by Matthew Coronato. His 2024–25 season has been a pivotal chapter in the Calgary Flames’ rebuilding narrative. After starting the season with the NHL club and registering two goals in his first five games, Coronato was assigned to the AHL’s Calgary Wranglers to further hone his skills. His time in the AHL was productive, and upon returning to the Flames, he made significant contributions, on a nightly basis. Coronato’s ability to adapt and impact games at the NHL level underscores his potential as a core offensive player. He showed his goal-scoring touch will translate to he NHL, and he has future 30-goal scorer potential. His development is vital for the Flames, as cultivating homegrown talent is essential for building a sustainable contenders.
Connor Zary built on his rookie year with increased responsibility. He showed creativity, versatility, and the ability to play centre. Injuries slowed him, but he proved he’s part of Calgary’s future. Adam Klapka also broke through late, moving from the fourth line to a top-six role. His size and net-front presence added a new element. Having three young forwards step up is a big win for the rebuild.
Frost and Bahl Fill Key Holes
Trading for Morgan Frost addressed Calgary’s long-standing lack of center depth. The 25-year-old brought two 40+ point seasons and solid faceoff numbers. Since joining the Flames, he has continued to make an impact, and shown ability the Flames need. His ability to contribute offensively and perform reliably in the faceoff circle addresses a critical need for the Flames, providing them with a versatile centre who can play in various situations. This move not only strengthens the team’s current lineup but also adds a valuable piece to their rebuilding efforts, aiming for sustained competitiveness in the coming years.
Kevin Bahl, acquired in the Markstrom trade, immediately improved the defense. At 6-foot-6 and 230 pounds, he plays with size and smarts. He led the NHL in stick checks and quickly looked like a reliable top-four defenseman. Adding Bahl and Frost filled two critical needs for the Flames moving forward, helping make this Flames season a success.
Building a Winning Culture
This season, the Calgary Flames have taken meaningful steps toward establishing a winning culture—an essential foundation for any rebuild. Despite being in a transitional phase and parting ways with several veterans, the team remained competitive, playing with purpose and urgency down the stretch. Cultivating a culture of accountability and high standards, even during a rebuild, accelerates player development and instills the habits necessary for winning. This approach contrasts sharply with teams like the Edmonton Oilers during the early 2010s and the Buffalo Sabres over the past five seasons, who endured prolonged stretches of underachievement largely due to inconsistent leadership and a lack of identity. By fostering a positive, competitive environment, the Flames are giving their young core the best possible conditions to grow into impactful NHL players and future leaders.
Calgary’s Future Looks Bright
Calgary’s Future Looks Good There are many fans that will complain about the Flames season this year. Fans wanted Calgary to finish lower in the standings to get the chance at a higher draft pick. There is no doubt that getting top-end talent in the draft is definitely an asset. However, what the Flames accomplished this year, is greater than a single high draft pick. With the development of key young players, the emergence of a potential franchise goaltender, a new found culture of hard-work, and some savy trades, the Calgary Flames 2024-2025 season should be considered a success.
Main Photo: Sergei Beleski- Imagn Images
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