Craig Conroy, general manager of the Calgary Flames, recently addressed the current status of Connor Zary’s contract negotiations, emphasizing that talks have progressed slowly but suggesting that an agreement might be imminent. As the Flames prepare for the upcoming training camp, this discussion centers on finalizing Zary’s deal to retain the forward amid key offseason decisions.
Current Situation of Connor Zary’s Contract Discussions
The Flames’ ongoing negotiations with restricted free agent Connor Zary have been described as sluggish, mirroring challenges faced in previous talks. Danny Austin, a Flames beat reporter, cited Conroy’s remarks on July 30, highlighting that while the dialogue is ongoing, it has not gained rapid momentum. Conroy referenced a similar negotiation with Martin Pospisil, stating,
“We’re talking, it’s been slow, though. Even with Pospisil, there comes a point where it heats up and you think ‘Now, we’re close’ and then you’re able to get it done really quick. Pospisil was probably 2 or 3 months we were talking with (agent Dan Millstein).”
—Craig Conroy, Calgary Flames GM
This cautious and gradual pace reflects the team’s strategic approach to contract extensions, following the precedent set by Pospisil’s recent three-year, $7.5 million bridge deal after an extended negotiation period.
Evaluating Zary’s Performance as a Basis for Contract Value
Connor Zary, selected in the first round of the 2020 draft, has demonstrated strong development through his entry-level contract. Over the last two seasons, he has shown consistent scoring ability, recording 13 goals and 27 points in 54 games this past year. The previous season, Zary tallied 14 goals and 34 points in 63 games. His progression suggested the potential to surpass 20 goals and 40 points in a full, healthy season before a lower-body injury prematurely ended his campaign.
Now coming off an entry-level deal with an $875,000 cap hit, Zary remains a restricted free agent as the Flames extended a qualifying offer to retain his rights. With the impending training camp less than two months away, the urgency to reach a new agreement is intensifying for both parties.
Influence of Pospisil’s Deal on Zary’s Contract Prospects
Martin Pospisil’s recent extension likely sets the benchmark for evaluating Zary’s upcoming contract. Despite Pospisil having fewer goals (four) last season, his 25 points overall earned him a $2.5 million average annual value (AAV). This figure could act as a starting point for Zary’s contract discussions, signaling a potentially comparable or slightly higher valuation considering Zary’s goal-scoring upside.
The Flames possess significant salary cap flexibility, with over $15 million available, enabling them to offer a competitive contract. However, both the club and Zary might prefer a bridge deal that limits risk while allowing Zary to prove his full potential. A three-year contract would maintain his restricted status until he reaches unrestricted free agency, balancing security and future bargaining power.
Long-Term Contract Options Based on Zary’s Potential
Should the Flames view Connor Zary as a future top-six forward, they may consider a more aggressive, longer-term commitment. An example is the Carolina Hurricanes’ recent signing of Jackson Blake to an eight-year extension after only one complete NHL season, signaling the value of locking in promising talent early.
Such a long-term deal would reflect strong confidence in Zary’s development and reward his potential breakout. For now, though, the Flames appear to be weighing options carefully, with the prospect of a bridge deal the likely near-term solution.
The Implications of Finalizing Zary’s Contract
Resolving Connor Zary’s contract is critical for the Flames as they prepare for the 2024-25 season, with the forward expected to play a key role given his upward trajectory. Securing him under a manageable cap hit ensures roster stability while allowing management to evaluate his growth over a few more seasons before committing to a larger offer.
The outcome of these negotiations could also set the tone for future contract talks within the organization, as demonstrated by the measured approach taken with Pospisil and others. As training camp draws near, the organization’s ability to reach an agreement quickly will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.