The Calgary Flames are in ongoing contract negotiations with their young center, Connor Zary, who hails from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. While discussions with defenseman Rasmus Andersson of Malmo, Sweden, are reportedly facing difficulties, prospects for Zary reaching an agreement with the Flames appear more promising. These talks are closely watched by Flames fans given their significance to the team’s future.
Jim Parsons of NHL Trade Talk reported recently that Zary is in talks for a three-year contract, though a gap remains between the Flames’ offer and the player’s expected salary. The negotiation seems to be a strategic exchange between Flames General Manager Craig Conroy and Zary’s agent Michael Kaye of Sports Corporation, rather than a sign of impending breakdown.
Optimism from Team Management and Media
Confidence in a successful contract signing is echoed within Calgary’s hockey media and the Flames’ leadership. Daniel Austin, a respected writer for the Calgary Herald, expressed on July 31 that it is
“more of a matter of when, not if,”
regarding Zary finalizing a deal. Conroy, recognized for his transparency, reinforced this outlook by stating,
“he’s a huge priority for us and we’re going to get it done, it’s just a matter of when.”
These statements provide reassurance amid concerns that Flames players in recent years have shown little long-term commitment to staying in Calgary. Notable departures have included Matthew Tkachuk, the late Johnny Gaudreau, Jacob Markstrom, and now possibly Andersson. A noteworthy factor boosting hope is Zary’s Canadian roots, especially as a player from western Canada, contrasting with some former stars born in the United States.
Performance Overview of Connor Zary in the 2024-25 Season
During the 2024-25 season, Zary played 54 games, recording 13 goals and 14 assists, totaling 27 points. His statistics also include minus-7 in plus-minus rating, 14 penalty minutes, 9 power-play points, and 2 game-winning goals. He was active on the ice with 111 shots on goal, 90 faceoff wins, along with 26 blocked shots and 26 hits. Additionally, he achieved 10 takeaways but had 40 giveaways throughout the season.
Zary’s first game-winning goal arrived in the Flames’ opening game on October 9, an overtime victory against the Vancouver Canucks. He scored 1:33 into the extra period, assisted by Andersson and Martin Pospisil. His second game-winner came on November 21 in a 3-2 victory over the New York Rangers, where Zary capitalized on an assist from Jonathan Huberdeau and defenseman MacKenzie Weegar with just over nine minutes left in the third period.
Concerns Regarding Injury History
Despite his contributions on the ice, durability remains a concern for Zary, as he suffered two serious knee injuries last season in games against the Anaheim Ducks and Dallas Stars. These injuries sidelined him for 28 games, raising questions about his long-term health and availability for the Flames.
Implications of the Contract Negotiations for the Flames
Resolving Connor Zary Flames contract negotiations is crucial for Calgary as they attempt to build a stable core amid continued player departures and management challenges. Securing Zary long-term would provide the Flames with a promising young center grounded in local Canadian roots, an element that could strengthen team identity and loyalty moving forward. The ongoing talks, while delicate, suggest a near-final resolution is expected under the leadership of Craig Conroy and his management team.