Calgary Flames: From Atlanta to Alberta

The Calgary Flames began as the Atlanta Flames in 1972, established as an NHL expansion team. The name "Flames" was chosen to honor the city of Atlanta's history during the Civil War, specifically General William Tecumseh Sherman's burning of the city.  In 1980, the franchise relocated to Calgary, Alberta, and has since become a central figure in Canadian hockey.

🏒 2025–26 Season: What's New with the Flames

🔄 Roster Updates

• Jonathan Huberdeau: The veteran left wing is sidelined due to an undisclosed injury sustained during a preseason game against the Vancouver Canucks. His status for the season opener against the Edmonton Oilers remains uncertain. 

• Martin Pospisil: Also out for the start of the season, Pospisil is recovering from an injury and will not be available for the opening games. 

• Matvei Gridin: The promising forward has earned a spot on the Flames' NHL roster for the 2025–26 season, marking a significant step in his development. 

• Zayne Parekh: Another notable addition, Parekh, the Flames' first-round pick in 2024, has made the NHL roster. He expressed his excitement, stating, "It's exciting to be here," and emphasized his commitment to long-term success with the team. 

🧠 Coaching Update

• Ryan Huska: The Flames have extended head coach Ryan Huska's contract for two more years. Despite the team's narrow miss of the playoffs last season, General Manager Craig Conroy commended Huska for fostering a strong team culture and effective communication.

🏒 Season Opener

The Flames are set to open the 2025–26 season on the road against the Edmonton Oilers on October 8, 2025, followed by a game against the Vancouver Canucks on October 9, 2025. Their home opener is scheduled for October 11, 2025, against the St. Louis Blues.

🏟️ Scotia Place: The Future Home of the Flames

Scotia Place is the new arena under construction to replace the aging Scotiabank Saddledome. With a seating capacity of 18,400, the arena is designed to be a multi-purpose venue, accommodating not only Flames games but also events for the Calgary Roughnecks, Hitmen, and Wranglers.

🏗️ Construction Timeline

• Groundbreaking: July 22, 2024

• Foundation Work: Started in January 2025

• Expected Opening: Fall 2027 https://www.calgary.ca

🏛️ Design Features

The arena's design includes a two-story sports bar and incorporates Indigenous cultural elements, reflecting Calgary's commitment to community and cultural heritage.

📅 Upcoming Games

Here are the Flames' upcoming games:

🔥 Final Thoughts

The Calgary Flames have come a long way since their days as the Atlanta Flames in 1972. From thrilling playoff runs to exciting new talent like Matvei Gridin, the team continues to capture the hearts of fans across Alberta and beyond.

The 2025–26 season promises to be an exciting chapter, with fresh roster updates, coaching stability under Ryan Huska, and high expectations for key players. Looking ahead, Scotia Place and the surrounding Park development will redefine the game-day experience, creating a modern, community-centered hub for sports and entertainment in Calgary.

Whether you’re a lifelong Flames fan or just discovering the team, there’s never been a more exciting time to cheer for Calgary hockey. Get ready to experience the action on the ice and in the city!

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