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3w ago

Flames Rookie Camp Spotlights Honzek’s Rebound Bid and Gridin’s Rise

Management is preaching a win-now selection standard with Edmonton set to field a top rookie trio for the opening prospects game.

Ike Howard
Team Finland's Roby Jarventie (13) celebrates a goal with teammates on Team Canada's goaltender Dylan Garand (31) during third period IIHF 2022 World Junior Championship play at Rogers Place in Edmonton, on Monday, Aug. 15, 2022.
Josh Samanski, left, No. 8 with the DEL Straubing Tigers battles Kyle Cumiskey, No. 16 with DEG on Jan. 10, 2025 at the PSD-BANK Dome in Dusseldorf, Germany. IMAGO/Maximilian Koch via
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Overview

  • Sam Honzek arrived at camp 15 pounds heavier and said he believes he can earn an NHL spot again by playing harder on the walls and staying consistent.
  • After making Calgary’s 2024 opening-night lineup and then suffering an upper-body injury, Honzek finished last season with 0 points in five NHL games and 21 points in 52 AHL outings.
  • Wranglers coach Brett Sutter relayed GM Craig Conroy’s message that roster decisions will favor players who help the Flames win immediately.
  • Matvei Gridin has drawn early praise for improved pro habits and fitness, following a high-scoring QMJHL season that included 36 goals and 43 assists and a strong playoff run.
  • The Oilers plan to start Ike Howard and Matt Savoie on the wings with Josh Samanski for tonight’s rookie game against Calgary, with a rematch scheduled Sunday in Calgary.