### Calgary Flames Make Strategic Moves in NHL Free Agency The Calgary Flames have been active in the NHL free agency period, making significant roster changes to strengthen their team for the upcoming seasons. Key signings include restricted free agent Morgan Frost and veteran defenseman Joel Hanley, alongside a notable contract extension for Kevin Bahl. These moves reflect the Flames' strategy to enhance their competitiveness while managing their salary cap effectively. - **Morgan Frost**: The Flames signed the 26-year-old center to a two-year contract worth $4.375 million per season. Frost had a mixed performance last season, tallying 14 goals and 37 points over 81 games, split between the Flames and the Philadelphia Flyers. His acquisition was part of a larger trade that saw him join Calgary midway through the previous season [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/flames_sign_rfa_center_morgan_frost_to_two_year_contract/s1_16958_42407631]. - **Joel Hanley**: The Flames re-signed the 34-year-old defenseman to a two-year deal valued at $1.75 million per season. Hanley played a crucial role last season, appearing in 53 games and contributing two goals and nine points. His experience and performance have made him a valuable asset for the Flames' defensive lineup [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/flames_sign_defenseman_joel_hanley_to_two_year_contract/s1_16958_42400662]. - **Kevin Bahl**: The Flames extended Bahl's contract for six years at an average annual value of $5.35 million. Bahl, who had a career-high 20 points last season, is seen as a key player for the Flames' future, especially as they navigate potential changes in their defensive lineup [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/grading_the_flames_6_year_extension_for_kevin_bahl/s1_16448_42396227]. ### Breakdown of Recent Flames Transactions 1. **Morgan Frost Signing**: - Two-year contract at $4.375 million AAV. - Performance: 14 goals, 37 points in 81 games last season. - Acquired from Philadelphia Flyers in a trade [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/flames_sign_rfa_center_morgan_frost_to_two_year_contract/s1_16958_42407631]. 2. **Joel Hanley Re-signing**: - Two-year contract worth $1.75 million per season. - Played 53 games last season, contributing two goals and nine points. - Important depth addition to the Flames' defense [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/flames_sign_defenseman_joel_hanley_to_two_year_contract/s1_16958_42400662]. 3. **Kevin Bahl Contract Extension**: - Six-year extension valued at $32.1 million. - Achieved career-highs in points and ice time last season. - Aims to solidify the Flames' defensive core moving forward [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/grading_the_flames_6_year_extension_for_kevin_bahl/s1_16448_42396227]. ### Summary of the Flames' Strategic Moves The Calgary Flames are actively reshaping their roster through strategic signings and extensions, aiming to improve their competitiveness in the NHL. 1. **Morgan Frost**: A promising addition with a two-year contract, expected to enhance the Flames' offensive capabilities. 2. **Joel Hanley**: A reliable veteran defenseman re-signed to provide depth and experience on the blue line. 3. **Kevin Bahl**: A long-term investment in a young defenseman who has shown significant growth and potential. These moves indicate the Flames' commitment to building a strong team while navigating the complexities of the salary cap and player performance expectations. The combination of new talent and retained veterans positions the Flames for a more competitive season ahead, as they look to break their playoff drought [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/flames_sign_rfa_center_morgan_frost_to_two_year_contract/s1_16958_42407631, https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/flames_sign_defenseman_joel_hanley_to_two_year_contract/s1_16958_42400662, https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/grading_the_flames_6_year_extension_for_kevin_bahl/s1_16448_42396227].