As the Calgary Flames prepare for their highly anticipated home opener, the team looks to build momentum after what has been a mixed start to the season.
With a talented roster on paper, the Flames have yet to fully capitalize on their potential. Head coach Ryan Huska has some decisions to make in order to spark better chemistry, elevate the team’s performance, and address areas that have been inconsistent. Here are three key lineup changes the Flames should consider before hitting the ice at the Scotiabank Saddledome for their home opener.
1.Top-Six Winger Shakeup
The Flames’ top-six forwards have shown flashes of potential but lack the sustained offensive production needed to compete with the league’s top teams. One adjustment could involve moving Jonathan Huberdeau up to play with Nazem Kadri and Tyler Toffoli. Huberdeau has been effective at generating offense in the past, but he has struggled to find consistent chemistry on the second line. By slotting him alongside Kadri and Toffoli, both of whom are more aggressive on the puck and have excellent offensive instincts, Huberdeau might be able to rediscover his playmaking touch. The combination of Huberdeau’s creativity and Toffoli’s finishing ability could give the Flames a more dynamic scoring line.
2. Third Line Balance
The third line has been somewhat ineffective in the early part of the season, both in terms of generating offense and in defensive zone play.
To address this, the Flames should consider placing Dillon Dube at center between Mikael Backlund and Blake Coleman Dube, with his speed and two-way play, could serve as an effective pivot, allowing Backlund and Coleman to focus on their respective defensive and offensive roles.
This move would also provide a balanced line that could create opportunities through transition play, while still being responsible in the defensive zone. The Flames need to be more consistent across all four lines, and this could be an effective way to ensure that balance.
3. Defensive Pairing Adjustments**
Calgary’s defensive pairs have been inconsistent, particularly in terms of supporting the team’s transition game and limiting high-danger chances.
One change the Flames should explore is moving **Noah Hanifin** to play alongside **Chris Tanev** on the top pair. Hanifin’s speed and puck-handling ability complement Tanev’s steady defensive presence.
This pairing would help solidify the Flames’ defensive structure and give more mobility to their blue line. Pairing **Rasmus Andersson** with **MacKenzie Weegar** on the second pair could also help, as both players have shown chemistry in the past and can support the attack from the back end.
These adjustments are aimed at improving both offensive firepower and defensive reliability. With the right tweaks, the Flames can set the tone for what they hope will be a successful season.