The Calgary Flames are enduring their worst start to a season, sitting at the bottom of the Pacific Division with a 3-9-2 record. They managed to snap a three-game losing streak on Sunday with a 2-1 win over the Flyers.
Their only other victories so far came in a 5-1 win over the Rangers on Oct. 26 and a 4-3 shootout win against the Oilers in their season opener. Next, the Flames will return home to face the Columbus Blue Jackets on Wednesday.
What Does Flames GM Craig Conroy Want From His Young Team?
There’s been plenty of talk in Calgary about the team’s direction, particularly regarding young defenseman Zayne Parekh. He did not play the previous two games, partly due to a minor injury. But also because management was weighing whether to send him back to the OHL. Parekh has recorded just one assist in 10 games so far and hasn’t made the impact the Flames were hoping for.
Addressing the situation, Flames GM Craig Conroy told Sportsnet that patience is key with players like Parekh. “With Zayne, there’s gonna be lots of mistakes.” Conroy said. “He’s gonna give up two-on-ones. He’s gonna turn pucks over for breakaways. But junior is not the place for him.”
Conroy didn’t reveal much about the organization’s next move but made it clear they have a long-term vision in mind. “We’re not going to tell people exactly what we’re doing — it doesn’t make any sense, because then you’re telling 31 teams,” Conroy said.
“We have an idea where we want this team to go, and how we’re getting there. If these young guys were so lights out, that’s what you need. You need players to come in and play so well you can’t take them out,” he added.
Young center Connor Zary was given a top six role in Sunday’s win, while Jonathan Huberdeau finally broke through with two goals in the same game.
Conroy stressed that development isn’t just about ice time but about accountability and learning from mistakes. He said young players will face ups and downs, sometimes needing a mental break, but must perform when they return.
“We want to win games and get better and give them that confidence. You just can’t continue to just play a guy if he’s playing bad. It doesn’t make any sense. How does he learn anything from it?” Conroy questioned.
As the team strives for consistency, all eyes will be on how this young roster develops.