The Calgary Flames finished the 2024–25 NHL season with a 41–27–14 record and 96 points, placing fourth in the Pacific Division and ninth in the Western Conference. Despite missing the playoffs, head coach Ryan Huska can set ambitious goals moving forward thanks to a major roster move.
Last season was one where several young players started to stand out, but the team’s overall competitiveness wasn’t enough to secure a postseason berth. This made the risk of losing a key player to free agency reason enough to lock in an extension.
Ryan Huska, who was named head coach on June 12, 2024, after serving as an assistant since 2018, is looking to solidify his new era with the Flames. The Calgary franchise improved its production and performance compared to the previous season and now aims to build on that foundation.
The player the Flames locked up
The Flames secured their young restricted free agent defenseman Kevin Bahl, signing him before he could reach free agency. The deal is for six years and $32.1 million in total, with an average annual value (AAV) of $5.35 million, signaling that he’s viewed as a core piece of their roster.
Bahl’s impact on the Flames
Bahl had his best statistical season in 2024–25, recording 3 goals and 17 assists (20 points) in 73 games, while averaging over 21 minutes per game in a top‑four defensive role. His presence is crucial for Calgary, and this move ensures defensive stability on the ice.
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Calgary acquired Bahl in June 2024 and saw in him a defenseman deeply committed to his own end. Additionally, this deal does not disrupt the team’s plans, as the Flames still have nearly $19 million in cap space to continue making moves.
