BLUEPRINTS: Should Flames Follow Sharks, Habs or Panthers? | Fifth loss in 2026

The Calgary Flames face a pivotal crossroads after their fifth loss of 2026—will a bold rebuild reshape their future? We examine how teams like the San Jose Sharks, Montreal Canadiens and Florida Panthers have navigated transformational rebuilds, spotlighting strategies Calgary could emulate, potential draft targets like Gavin McKenna and the looming Rasmus Andersson trade. With the Flames already armed with multiple first-round picks, fans wonder if bottoming out is the key to attracting generational talent and enticing free agents.

A heartbreaking 5-3 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets exposes the Flames’ struggle to sustain pressure, despite power play success and strong games from Mikael Backlund, Dustin Wolf and Andersson. We hear from Locked On NHL about Ryan Huska’s coaching future after the Blue Jackets relieved head coach Dean Evason of his duties and hired veteran NHL coach Rick Bowness. Is this the moment Calgary finally commits to a true rebuild, or will management double down on continuity? The next moves could define the Flames’ identity for seasons to come.

Timestamps
0:00 – Embracing the Flames’ Rebuild
10:58 – Columbus Loss Recap & Player Updates
24:08 – Locked On NHL: Ryan Huska’s Job Security, Coaching Continuity

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