High Tension: Calgary Flames reactions as they reach agreement for Jacob Markstrom’s replacement
In a major shakeup, the Calgary Flames have traded Jacob Markstrom, their primary goaltender for the past four seasons, to the New Jersey Devils. This trade brought defenseman Kevin Bahl and a first-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft to Calgary. Consequently, the Flames are now in the midst of reassessing their goaltending options for the upcoming season.
### New Opportunities in the Crease
With Markstrom gone, the Flames lack a proven starting goaltender. Currently, Dan Vladar and Dustin Wolf are the main contenders for the starting spot. This situation opens the door for the Flames to evaluate their in-house talent during training camp. Vladar and Wolf have only 82 NHL starts combined, and they may need to share the workload throughout the season. Although they don’t have the extensive experience of Markstrom, this is a critical chance for one of them to step up.
### Dustin Wolf’s Potential
Dustin Wolf has impressive credentials, including two Aldege ‘Baz’ Bastien Memorial Awards and an MVP title in the AHL for the 2022-23 season. His performance during his end-of-season call-up, where he won four consecutive games, suggests he’s ready for the NHL. Despite his smaller stature, Wolf has consistently proven his abilities at every level, and Markstrom’s departure gives him a chance to secure a permanent role with the Flames.
### Dan Vladar’s Recovery
Dan Vladar’s season was marred by a hip injury, which required surgery in late March. The Flames anticipate that Vladar will be fully recovered by the start of the 2024-25 season. This injury had been affecting him for over a year, contributing to a disappointing 3.62 goals-against average and a .882 save percentage last season. With his hip now repaired, Vladar has the potential to showcase the talent the Flames believe he possesses.
### Emerging Talents in the Pipeline
The Flames have added Waltteri Ignatjew, a Finnish goaltender who excelled in Sweden’s second pro division. Ignatjew, who recently signed a two-way contract, will have to prove himself further with the Wranglers. Additionally, the Flames have young prospects like Arsenii Sergeev, now at Penn State, and Yegor Yegorov, who will continue developing in junior leagues.
### Potential Goalie Acquisitions
Depending on their needs, the Flames might look to acquire an experienced goaltender. Cam Talbot, a free agent at 36, is one option who knows the Saddledome well. Laurent Brossoit, a former Flame and Stanley Cup champion, could also be a target, offering the potential to compete for the starting role. However, the Flames missed out on Alex Nedeljkovic, who re-signed with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
### Concerns and Considerations
There is some concern about how Dustin Wolf might perform behind a retooling team. While the focus is less on wins and losses, the Flames are wary of damaging Wolf’s confidence, given his bright future. Balancing development and performance will be crucial for the Flames as they navigate the season with their current goaltending roster.
### Conclusion
The Calgary Flames are at a crossroads with their goaltending situation following the trade of Jacob Markstrom. With young prospects like Dustin Wolf ready to step up and Dan Vladar recovering from injury, the team has a mix of potential and uncertainty in the net. The upcoming season will be pivotal in determining whether their in-house talent can fill the void left by Markstrom or if additional moves will be necessary.