The Calgary Flames are trying to climb back up the National League Western Conference standings and the next few weeks will be crucial for the futures of several players, including potentially goaltender Jacob Markstrom.
The Swede is in the fourth season of a six-year, $36 million contract and, strangely in the eyes of some, his name is only just beginning to be floated around in speculation. However, the Alberta team has won its last two games and remains hopeful of qualifying for the playoffs; Head coach Ryan Huska's team sits in 11th place in the West, three points behind the Nashville Predators, who have the second wild card among drafted clubs.
• Also read: Connor McDavid could trample CH on Saturday
• Also read: The sky is falling on Trevor Zegras' head
• Also read: Elvis Merzlikins could leave the Blue Jackets
However, Markstrom could be an excellent bargaining chip for an organization that may be looking to acquire some valuable pieces to improve their long-term chances of winning a Stanley Cup. Additionally, NHL Network broadcaster hockey expert Kevin Weekes sent a cryptic message on Friday consisting of a two-eye emoji accompanied by a photo of the person wearing the Flames color.
“[Le directeur général] Craig Conroy has not approached him or his agent Pat Morris about the possibility of his no-movement clause being lifted. “I was told that this will only happen if the team receives an offer deemed acceptable,” said journalist David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period. According to some, Markstrom could be considering a transaction that would send him to a club aiming for major honors, but this has not been confirmed on my end.
Injury
The hockey observer added that it was premature to predict what Calgary might receive in return for the former Florida Panthers and Vancouver Canucks. In the 2023-24 season, he held a record of 12-11-2, a goals-against average of 2.65 and a save percentage of .910.
The 33-year-old suffered a broken finger on his right hand in December and was out for a few weeks. Dan Vladar is the other goalie who has been with the Flames since the start of the regular season.