@NHLFlames Content Manager & Executive Producer of The Chase. Previously: @NHLJets & @edmontonoilers.
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Articles by Ryan Dittrick
Huberdeau 'Pain Free' As Hip Recovery Continues
It may be summertime around the Scotiabank Saddledome, but the health of one of Calgary’s top players is top of mind in the Flames’ front office. On Saturday following the conclusion of the 2026 NHL Draft, GM Craig Conroy had some good news to share on the status of Jonathan Huberdeau. “I actually talked to Jonathan three or four days ago now and he's back skating,” Conroy said. “He said it feels great in the gym, great doing everything else.
'It's My Whole World Right Now'
Flames trade up, grab towering goalie Tobias Trejbal with 42nd pick June 27, 2026 It’s cliché – even passé – to recycle that infamous annual draft jargon. But in this case, the Flames truly did ‘get their guy.’ In fact, they traded up – sending Picks 51 and 68 to the Carolina Hurricanes – to ensure they wouldn’t miss out the puck-stopper they surely considered using an earlier selection on.
'It Feels Surreal'
After a day of tagging cows on the family farm, Carels celebrates draft night with family and friends June 27, 2026 ‘Serendipitous’ doesn’t begin to describe it. Surrounded by family, friends and more than a small town’s worth of supportive neighbours on the family farm, Carson Carels was drafted to the city with an equally rich western heritage. Surely, his first-ever trip to the world-famous Calgary Stampede will be one for the books, now.
'His Game Was Taking Off'
Nemec's tantalizing skill-set excites Conroy and the Flames June 23, 2026 With all kinds of draft capital practically spilling from his suit pockets, a swing like this from Craig Conroy sure livened things up during an already exciting week around these parts. It felt ‘right’ – both in timing, and opportunity.
The Top-5 'Must-Haves' At The Flames Equipment Sale
The sale runs on Saturday, June 13 at the Scotiabank Saddledome June 12, 2026 Calling all gearheads, collectors, beer-leaguers and bargain hunters! The annual Flames Equipment Sale is back for 2026, with hockey lovers of all ages looking to score something special.
'Compete And Passion'
Bruising prospect Mace'o Phillips is soaking up the experience at his first Flames camp July 04, 2025 Sleepaway summer camps are a time to make memories. And share them with those you love most. “I've sent her a few pictures and even called her last night,” said Flames prospect and 2025 draftee Mace’o Philips, whose mother, Amy, has been the steadying force in his life from a young age.
'An Exciting Day'
Morgan Frost isn’t the type to get nervous. But even the most level-headed and steely eyed sort can’t help but feel butterflies in a situation like that. “I think when you first get traded, there’s a big adrenaline rush for the first few games,” said Frost, who was acquired by the Flames from the Philadelphia Flyers nearly two-thirds into last season. “It almost takes you back to your first-career game, where everything is new and you’re not really sure how you’ll fit in.
'Come Take A Job'
Conroy stays true to the plan - while encouraging his young players - as free agency opens July 01, 2025 Cap space can sometimes burn a hole in your pocket. If you’re not disciplined, that is. But here, at this time, for this team and its GM, mortgaging the future by handing out spots and doling out huge sums of cash ran contrary to the plan.
The Scouting Report
Conroy on Reschny and Potter, and the 'electric' skill that made the newest Flames first-round slam-dunks June 28, 2025 One night – and two picks – can change a lot for a franchise. And now, with this team, a gap in the depth chart is suddenly brimming with potential. “When you're looking for a centre...” Flames GM Craig Conroy said following Friday’s first round of the NHL Draft. Indeed, they were.
'Everyone's Pounding The Table'
Conroy, Flames conduct final meetings ahead of Friday's NHL Draft June 26, 2025 For those waiting with bated breath, hammering the F5 key and accomplishing nothing at the office in hopes of catching a first glimpse of breaking trade news… Craig Conroy isn’t making any promises. BUT (and there’s always a but)… “If there's one to be made there, for sure,” Conroy laughed as he addressed the media Thursday ahead of the 2025 NHL Draft.
'Keep Challenging Myself'
Gone are the days of having the pro shop on speed dial. For a few years, at least. For Dryden Hunt, there’s another, more noble endeavour that’s taken over in his life, as he spends his first-ever hockey offseason as a father to 15-week-old Wells. “A little less golf. A little less sleep,” laughed Hunt, who put pen to paper on a two-year, two-way contract with the Flames on Friday afternoon. “It’s a bit of a change of pace for me. “I don't think anybody can prepare you for your first child.
'It's An Unbelievable Feeling'
Confident Klapka looking to pick up where he left off after signing new deal June 11, 2025 To say the potential is, ahem – massive – would be an understatement. With how Adam Klapka finished the 2024-25 season on something of a heater – even earning the praise of his head coach and drawing comparisons to another colossal human, in Washington's Aliaksei Protas – it's hard not to be excited about lies ahead. For him, this feels like the start of something ... bigger.
Gridin Wins First-Ever Sidney Crosby Trophy
Matvei Gridin's name is now etched alongside one of the greatest in hockey history. Gridin, the Flames' first-round pick - 28th overall - in 2024, is the inaugural recipient of the Sidney Crosby Trophy as the QMJHL's Rookie of the Year. The 19-year-old led all rookies in virtually every offensive category, including points goals (36), assists (43), points (79) plus/minus (+31), shots (236), game-winning goals (5), powerplay assists (15) and short-handed goals (4).
World Championship Recap - 24.05.25
The immaculate house-party vibes quickly turned somber, as the hometown Avicii Arena filled with the dulcet tones of Lynyrd Skynyrd's classic southern rock anthem instead. 'Won't you fly high, free bird, yeah.' Indeed, the now-famous U.S. goal song - 'Free Bird' - was played on repeat, as the red, white and blue knocked off the Swedes 6-2 in semifinal action, and dashing their opponent's hopes of winning a gold medal on home soil in Stockholm.
World Championship Recap - 13.05.25
Weegar logs 18:14 as Canada remains perfect in preliminary round May 13, 2025 Canada 5, France 0 Not bad if you like perfect. Just one of the games on Tuesday at the 2025 IIHF World Championship had a local flair to it, with Ryan Huska, MacKenzie Weegar and Team Canada improving to 3-0-0-0 with a spotless, 5-0 win over France. Weegar logged 18:14 in ice time and had three shots on goal, along with a +1 rating.
World Championship Recap - 10.05.25
Weegar, Andersson & Backlund all record points in pair of victories May 10, 2025 Ryan Huska, MacKenzie Weegar and a stacked Canadian team took care of business, opening the 2025 IIHF World Championship with a 4-0 win over Slovenia in their first game of the round robin. Weegar finished with an assist, along with four penalty minutes and a +1 rating, in 14:13 of ice time.
5 Things - Flames vs. Ducks
The Flames open a crucial homestand tonight vs. Anaheim (7:30 p.m. MT/Sportsnet One) April 03, 2025 1. All Business It’s officially that time now. With math and ‘magic numbers’ now a daily part of the NHL’s playoff lexicon, the clock is ticking fast for the Flames to make a charge up the standings to secure their spot in the spring dance.
'We Have To Pick Him Up'
Frost talks faceoff strategy in Backlund's absence March 14, 2025 Those 1,236 faceoffs won’t replace themselves. Nor will the team-leading 258 short-handed draws – nearly five times the volume of anyone else on the roster. But press on, they must. With the indispensable Mikael Backlund out week-to-week with an upper-body injury, others will have to step up and fill the void left by their captain, and versatile, shutdown centre.
5 Things - Flames vs. Sharks
The playoff push continues tonight at the Scotiabank Saddledome (6 p.m. MT/Sportsnet West) February 23, 2025 1. Let's Get At 'Er With practice after practice – after practice, after practice – Head Coach Ryan Huska figured the players would be thrilled when this week was over. So, Blake Coleman, are you a happy guy today? “Yep,” the winger laughed following Saturday’s dress rehearsal at WinSport. “Ready to play.
'We Both Had Chills'
Farabee settled into life as a Flame; pumped for Thursday's 4 Nations final February 19, 2025 Usually there’s a red tinge blanketing the ice whenever the Flames are around, for obvious reasons. These days, though, there’s an added bit of vibrance. And absolutely no mistaking whose sun-kissed holiday was lacking in SPF.
'They're Getting Closer'
Zary, Bahl close to full health as Flames return from 4 Nations Break February 18, 2025 The injury bug … bites. But for the first time in months, the wounds are (nearly) healed and two of the Flames’ most impactful players are on the cusp of a return. Connor Zary and Kevin Bahl were both on the ice Tuesday at WinSport, showing no ill effects and taking regular line rushes, following a nine-day respite for the club.
5 Things - Flames vs. Maple Leafs
The Flames return home for a classic all-Canadian matchup (7 p.m. MT/Sportsnet West) February 04, 2025 1. Last Time Out Brrr. With an Arctic blast hammering southern Alberta over the past few days, not even the balmy environs of the Pacific Northwest could temper the Frost.
'You Love It' | Calgary Flames
Big trade has Andersson pumped to prove people wrong February 01, 2025 Spring training hasn’t officially arrived yet, but Craig Conroy is already out here smacking dingers. “It's nice to see that management is doing something like this for us, after no one on the outside believed in us at the start of the season,” said one of the team’s preeminent and most outspoken leaders, Rasmus Andersson. “And here we are.
'He's Doing Really Well'
Connor Zary hasn’t yet resumed skating. But according to Head Coach Ryan Huska, the forward’s recovery is going well – and a return to the freeze isn’t terribly far off. “We're hopeful that he'll be back on the ice in a very limited way over the next week or so,” Huska said following Thursday’s morning skate. “He's still got a ways to go, don't get me wrong. But he's doing really well with his rehab, so we're pretty excited about that.” Zary has been out of commission since Jan.
'Nice To Get Some Reps'
Barrie returning to Flames lineup after conditioning assignment with Wranglers January 28, 2025 Two games, two nights, and a goal and three points. From a ‘conditioning’ standpoint, Tyson Barrie felt right home with the Calgary Wranglers as he worked his away back to the top level. “It was nice to play, play a lot, and get my conditioning up a little bit,” Barrie said following Tuesday’s morning skate. “There's nothing quite like getting in game shape, so it was nice to get some reps.
5 Things - Flames vs. Capitals
The Flames open a three-game homestand tonight vs. Ovi and the Caps (7 p.m. MT/Sportsnet West) January 28, 2025 1. Saddledome Rise With seven of their last nine games played away from the friendly confines, the Flames had Aeroplan Elite status firmly in their crosshairs. Alas, they can finally unpack and stash away their suitcases. For now.
5 Things - Flames @ Jets
The Flames close out a back-to-back set tonight in Winnipeg (4 p.m. MT/Sportsnet West) January 26, 2025 1. About Last Night It was Hockey Day in St. Paul. It’s there, outside the Xcel Energy Center, where an iconic, 11-foot statue of Minnesota native Herb Brooks stands proudly in the plaza and reminds visitors of the 1980 ‘Miracle on Ice.’ With the city’s rich hockey history in mind, why not get up close and personal, and treat the locals to an edge-of-your-seat, playoff-style thriller?
'Come Back Stronger'
Pelletier in Zary's corner as his pal rehabs knee injury January 11, 2025 Jakob Pelletier knows the feeling all too well. When a shoulder injury sidelined him for the better part of last season, there were times when he felt alone. Sequestered. Like the world was moving on without him. Now, with his pal, Connor Zary, out indefinitely with a knee injury, Pelletier is making sure he has all the support he needs.
5 Things - Flames vs. Kings
The Flames are back on home ice for our annual Indigenous Celebration Game (8 p.m. MT/CBC) January 11, 2025 1. Act Two The timeline has yet to be determined. But while the image of Connor Zary's frightening, knee-on-knee collision lingers in the mind's eye, the Flames now have some information to work off. Late Friday, it was announced that Zary will "not require surgery, but will be missing from the Flames lineup for an indefinite period." The 23-year-old will begin his rehab immediately.
'Brings Back All Those Great Memories'
Flames Quarter-Century First Team: Regehr January 11, 2025 You wouldn’t know it by his famously rugged play style. Or by the hair-raising ‘Tunnel of Death’ he employed, where apprehensive, opposition forwards rarely escaped unscathed. But Robyn Regehr – one of the most impactful defensive blueliners of a generation – is as humble as they come. “I'm not really an 'all-star'-type of player,” Regehr laughed when reached over the phone. Oh?
5 Things - Flames @ Kings
The Flames arrive in Hollywood looking to sweep California road trip (8:30 p.m. MT/Sportsnet West) January 08, 2025 1. About Last Night Marching into the lion’s den and trying to assert dominance is no easy task. But after a sketchy first half of the year away from the Scotiabank Saddledome, the Flames have slowly begun to find comfort in the hostile environs – and thanks to last night’s 4-3 overtime win over the Anaheim Ducks, have now won three of their last four road dates.
The Good, Great & The Ugly
Flames put on a show for the moms, but lose Zary to injury in feisty OT win over Ducks January 08, 2025 ANAHEIM – For a time, the wind was completely sucked out of the building. During. And, yes, even after. A win like this would normally be celebrated in style, with a chorus of cheers, high-fives aplenty, and a round of hugs with all the moms that made the trip. In the dressing room after, it was a tad ... muted.
5 Things - Flames @ Ducks
The Flames play the first of back-to-back games in SoCal (8 p.m. MT/Sportsnet West) January 07, 2025 1. Do It For Her Ooh, mama! As if the comforting, California sunshine wasn't enough to buoy their spirits, the Flames will have the league's best cheering section rooting them on tonight at the Honda Center.
Certified Hockey Mom
5 a.m. wake-up calls? That was just the beginning. Sandy Coleman did it all January 07, 2025 It was the Roar heard around the globe. When Rusty Coleman seized the moment and debuted a never-before-heard nickname for his son, Blake, it set off a chain reaction that took the hockey world by storm.
5 Things - Flames vs. Islanders
The Flames look to stay hot as the Isles come to town (7 p.m. MT/Sportsnet One) November 19, 2024 1. Back From The ‘Break’ Two days off? In a ROW?! While it might be a rarity – unthinkably so in this racket – the Flames took full advantage and returned to practice Monday with all sorts of energy in the coffers. “I think that's the first time – unless it's a break – in my seven years I've had two days off,” said Rasmus Andersson.
'Good Teammate And A Good Person'
Barrie finding comfort, confident with increased role on Flames blueline November 14, 2024 Even the most hardened pros can find the adjustment to be a complete shock to the senses. He isn’t exactly ‘used to it’ by now, but after stops in four other markets and a PTO to begin his Flames tenure, Tyson Barrie is now officially settled into his new environs. “Switching teams can be tough,” the 33-year-old admits.
5 Things - Flames @ Canucks
The Flames play the second of back-to-back games tonight in Vancouver (8 p.m. MT/Sportsnet One) November 12, 2024 1. About Last Night It was one their best, most complete efforts of the season. And Ryan Lomberg – energy forward, fan-favourite and hype-man extraordinaire – certainly agreed. “That's a (bleeping) good game, lads," he shouted, captured by FlamesTV, as the team left the ice following an impressive 3-1 win over the visiting LA Kings.
5 Things - Flames vs. Kings
The Flames and Kings tangle on Prime Monday Night Hockey (6:30 p.m. MT/Prime) November 11, 2024 1. Last Time Out If you’re the glass half-full type, earning four of a possible six points on a three-game road trip would have to be seen as a positive. Then again … Jetting home on Saturday following a second-straight extra-time defeat would leave a sour taste, no matter how many were gained. “It’s been our starts, right?
5 Things - Flames vs. Jets
The Flames look to hand the Jets their first loss of the season (5 p.m. MT/CBC) October 26, 2024 1. S-A-T-U-R-D-A-Y… Night! Gonna keep on dancing To the rock and roll Dancin' to the rhythm In our heart and soul On Saturday night Saturday night! If you’re like me and the Bay City Rollers help summon that invigorating 'Hockey Night' nostalgia, you might want to park yourself in front of the TV tonight. For the 5-1-1 Flames to face off in the early slot of 5 p.m. MT is rare.
5 Things - Flames vs. Penguins
The Flames open a three-game homestand tonight vs. Crosby and the Pens (7:30 p.m. MT/Sportsnet One) October 22, 2024 1. ‘Dome, Sweet ‘Dome Flush it. Reset. And march forward. With the best start in franchise history officially in their back pocket, the 4-0-1 Flames have turned their focus from an overtime loss on Saturday to the first true homestand of the 2024-25 season. And what a way to ignite the proceedings... With a visit from one of the greatest players ever to lace 'em up.
'Dancing In Her Pajamas'
Madison Kirkland greeted Justin on the front steps of their home after scoring his first NHL goal October 15, 2024 It’s always a good reminder to hug the people you love. But when your husband – “the best guy,” tweeted Madison Kirkland – fulfills a childhood dream in one of the most storied rivalries in professional sports, you embrace the moment and pull out all the stops. No matter the wardrobe. “My wife is so supportive,” Justin, now an NHL goal-scorer, beamed following Tuesday’s morning skate.
'The Sky's The Limit'
Newcomer Anthony Mantha finding success with Huberdeau, Pospisil October 13, 2024 EDMONTON – A proclamation like this comes with the usual bit of caution: It’s early. But with a combined 12 points in two games – including a team-leading five from Jonathan Huberdeau – something special could be brewing in the Flames forward ranks. “I don't know if it's better for him or for me,” laughed Anthony Mantha, who patrols the opposite wing with Martin Pospisil down the middle.
'Super Special' | Calgary Flames
Honzek set to make 'Dome debut with his parents on hand October 12, 2024 Martin and Monika Honzek had never stepped foot in Calgary. But after waking up at 4 a.m. to watch their son, 19-year-old Sam, make his big-league debut this past Wednesday in Vancouver, the hours-long hop across the Atlantic was a no-brainer for this hockey-mad family. “They brought some snacks – some of my favourite Slovakian snacks,” Honzek laughed. “So, now I've got a full (pantry) of it. “They’re loving the city so far.
'It Gives You Goosebumps'
Weegar on the excitement, emotions of opening night at the 'Dome October 11, 2024 In an era defined by windmills, leg drops, and the iconic leap into the tall glass, Rasmus Andersson has taken the icy approach to the modern goal celebration. “Oh, I saw the video,” laughed fellow blueliner, MacKenzie Weegar. “I'm normally not the biggest fan of the staredown because he leaves his teammates hanging.
Olympic Bound | Calgary Flames
Martin Pospisil has always had an Olympic-sized motor. But now, the feisty Flames forward is one step closer to realizing a childhood dream after helping his home country secure a spot in the 2026 Milan Games. The Slovaks - who are the defending bronze medalists from the tournament only two years ago - knocked off Kazakhstan 3-1 Sunday in front of a sellout crowd at Bratislava's Ondrej Nepela Arena.
Remembering Johnny
Flames.com's Ryan Dittrick recalls incredible legacy left by Flames great August 30, 2024 Long before he whistled that impossible shot past Jake Oettinger's right shoulder, Johnny Gaudreau set this town ablaze. In fact, I'd repeatedly turn to my boss, Ty Pilson, and laugh at how my off-day story ideas were bordering on lunacy. 'Johnny AGAIN?' I'd murmur to myself, knowing full well it was one of the biggest angles to pursue for most of that spellbinding, 115-point campaign in 2022.
'Dominates Every Shift'
Hometown boy Andrew Basha soaking in 'surreal' Flames camp July 05, 2024 By car, Las Vegas to Calgary shouldn’t exceed 19 hours of total drive time. But after having his flight cancelled on the trek back from the draft, a circuitous route home was no biggie for Andrew Basha and his crew bound for YYC. “I'll never forget that road trip,” Basha recalled. “It took us about 22 hours, give or take, because my one buddy kept getting car sick.
'They Wanted Me'
Brzustewicz sees big opportunity in Flames' overhauled prospect pool July 04, 2024 Opportunity like this can make a prospect’s eyes swell to the size of a dinner plate. And beginning here at his first Flames camp, a hungry Hunter Brzustewicz has every intention to feast. “(I’m coming) here with the attitude of making the team,” the blueliner said following the first day of on-ice instruction.
Draft Day 2 Notebook - 29.06.24
OHL connections run deep ... Conroy, Button "ecstatic" with draft haul ... Iggy's influence June 29, 2024 LAS VEGAS – Family. And fraternity. That’s what the NHL Draft is all about. When Henry Mews heard his name called by the Flames in the third round, 74th overall, he couldn’t believe his ears. The very friends he was busy texting last night suddenly became ‘teammates’ at the world’s top level.
'Scoring Touch, Passing and Vision'
LAS VEGAS – The volatility of draft day makes for captivating TV. And high stress for everyone else. Everyone, that is, but Jacob Battaglia – who already knew he was going to the Flames. “It's going to sound crazy,” he laughed. "But at Christmas I saw a spiritual healer and she told me she really feels Calgary. No word of a lie – I'm not making this up. She feels Calgary. And when they came up, I was like, 'This has to be it, this has to be it!' “And there it was.” Crazy? Far from it.
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