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Calgary Flames Prospects Who Could Earn Nhl Ice Time In 2026-27

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The Calgary Flames are currently in rebuilding mode, with a promising pipeline that could aid their transition over the next few seasons.

While players like Zayne Parekh, Matvei Gridin, Yan Kuznetsov, and Hunter Brzustewicz all took massive steps this season and are likely locks for NHL roster spots next year, several other prospects are knocking on the door. Here are a few players looking to earn call-ups and NHL ice time next season.

© Sergei Belski-Imagn Images

Abram Wiebe (Wranglers) - Initially considered a secondary piece in the trade that sent Rasmus Andersson to the Vegas Golden Knights, Wiebe has proven his value. Drafted 209th overall by Vegas in 2022, he appeared in four games for the Flames late last season and is slated to skate for the Wranglers next year. He earned multiple Defenceman of the Week awards during his sophomore season at North Dakota and was named to the NCHC All-Academic Team, finishing the year with 29 points (5g, 24a) in 40 games.

© Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
© Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Cole Reschny (NCAA) - Reschny is expected to return to North Dakota next season for continued development. While he could be ready for professional minutes with the Wranglers, his consistent offensive skill, hockey sense, and solid two-way game suggest he will soon be wearing a Flaming ‘C.’ As the Flames look to bolster their center depth, Reschny is a prime candidate; he suited up for Team Canada at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championships, recording 8 points (5g, 3a) in 5 games, and averaged nearly a point per game at North Dakota with 35 points (6g, 29a) in 36 games. He was named NCHC Rookie of the Year in 2025-26.

Ethan Wyttenbach (NCAA) - Wyttenbach had a breakout 2025-26 season with Quinnipiac University, tallying 59 points (25g, 24a) in 40 games. Drafted 144th overall by the Flames in 2025, the 5’10", 180-pound winger has shown clear progress. While he may remain in the NCAA for another season, he is quickly becoming a name to watch in the Calgary prospect pool.

© Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
© Sergei Belski-Imagn Images

Aydar Suniev (Wranglers) - Suniev saw action with the Flames last season and, while he needs to refine his defensive play, he brings a lethal shot and an undeniable nose for the net. On a team desperate for offence, Suniev could carve out a permanent role if he continues to produce and improves his play away from the puck. Drafted 80th overall in 2023, the 21-year-old has played seven career NHL games and recorded his first NHL point, an assist, against the Utah Mammoth on April 12, 2026.

© Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
© Sergei Belski-Imagn Images

Tyson Gross (Flames) -  One of the most touted free agents out of the college ranks last season, Gross recorded 41 points (18g, 23a) in 36 games with St. Cloud State before signing an entry-level deal with his hometown Flames. He finished the season in Calgary, playing six games and scoring his first career NHL goal against the Colorado Avalanche. He brings size, hockey sense, and reliability in the faceoff circle.

© Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
© Sergei Belski-Imagn Images

Samuel Honzek (Flames) - Honzek is currently bridging the gap between prospect and pro. He made the Flames roster out of training camp last season and was effectively playing alongside Mikael Backlund in a shutdown role before a season-ending injury sidelined him. He was performing at a high level, and he will look to reclaim his spot once training camp begins.

© Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
© Sergei Belski-Imagn Images

Rory Kerins (Wranglers) -  While the window may be closing for Kerins, he remains a top prospect due to his strong AHL performance and his persistent drive to earn NHL minutes. Success will ultimately come down to him making the most of his opportunities when called upon. Kerins, the Flames' 174th overall pick in 2020, was named an AHL All-Star last season after recording 57 points (22g, 35a) in 56 games for the Wranglers. He has recorded four assists in nine career NHL games.