The Calgary Flames are looking to solidify their identity after a 2024–25 season marked by a young and physical offense, where high-energy, gritty players emerged in the lower third of the lineup. Amid rumors about Nazem Kadri’s future and a reported interest from Auston Matthews’ Toronto Maple Leafs, the franchise secured a key extension.
The need to strengthen the attack has led the Flames to make selective moves among their forwards, aiming to balance productivity and physical presence on the ice. It’s never an easy offseason when a franchise like the Maple Leafs is circling around.
Securing a contract extension while your star player is surrounded by rumors of reuniting with Matthews was far from ideal for Calgary. Nevertheless, the plans move forward, and there’s good news for the Flames.
Who signed an extension with the Flames?
The player who signed a notable extension with the Flames is right wing Martin Pospisil, who agreed to a new three-year deal worth $7.5 million, averaging $2.5 million per season. The news was officially confirmed by the franchise.
Pospisil’s new contract will begin in the 2026–27 season and run through 2028–29, preventing the 25-year-old forward from reaching restricted free agency in 2026. With this signing, the Flames lock in a key second- or third-line piece.
Slim chances for the Maple Leafs
The Leafs had been exploring a possible reunion with Kadri. However, talks with the Flames have stalled due to Calgary’s high demands and Toronto’s limited assets. Given the current outlook, a return for the 34-year-old veteran forward is no longer in the cards.