The Calgary Flames fell just short of a playoff berth in 2025, despite ending the regular season with an impressive four-game win streak. They tied the St. Louis Blues for the final Wild Card spot, but a lack of regulation wins ultimately cost them a postseason appearance. The biggest issue? Offense. Calgary finished a dismal 30th in league scoring, making it clear what general manager Craig Conroy needs to prioritize this summer.
Flames Eye Shane Wright as Potential Right-Shot Center Solution
NHL insider Pierre LeBrun recently reported that the Flames’ top offseason priority is landing a right-shot center. The team had expressed interest in Dylan Cozens before the Sabres dealt him to the Senators, indicating Calgary is ready to act aggressively. Conroy knows free agency isn’t a sustainable long-term strategy but is open to using all avenues—including the trade market and internal development—to strengthen the roster.
With $34.2 million in projected cap space, the Flames are positioned to make a big move. While free agency offers options like John Tavares, Brock Nelson, Matt Duchene, and Sam Bennett, all are left-shot centers—leaving Conroy to look elsewhere for the right fit.
Enter Shane Wright.
Wright, 21, had a breakout year in Seattle, tallying 19 goals and 24 assists. The Kraken may be hesitant to part ways with a young, talented right-shot center, but if Calgary dangles a package of prospects and high draft picks, Seattle could listen. Wright fits Conroy’s target age range (21-25), and his two-way play and offensive upside would instantly boost Calgary’s top six.
Another name to watch is J.T. Compher in Detroit. The Red Wings missed the playoffs again and may be open to shake-ups. Compher is 30—slightly older than Conroy’s ideal range—and carries a $5.1M cap hit for the next three years. Still, in a market thin on right-shot centers, Calgary may consider this a reasonable gamble.
Whether through trade or free agency, the Flames must address their scoring woes. Wright represents a rare mix of youth, skill, and positional need that could be the long-term solution Calgary has been searching for.
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