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Connor Zary Poised for Bigger Role with Flames in 2024-25

The Calgary Flames are gearing up for the 2024-25 NHL season with a clear focus on developing their young talent, particularly Connor Zary. Clearly in rebuild mode, the Flames are not necessarily aiming for a playoff spot this year but rather focusing on building already solid players into stars. Zary will be among them and perhaps the most important.

Zary, who had a promising rookie season in 2023-24 with 14 goals and 20 assists in 63 games, is expected to take on an even bigger role this season. It won't just be about how many points he can get, but in what position and situation he gets them.

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This year could be a pivotal one for Zary as he looks to impress and take on more responsibility in Calgary's lineup. He may potentially play more minutes at center and take on roles in special teams, whether on the penalty kill or the power play.

His ability to carry the puck through all zones and his comfort with having the puck on his stick make him a near lock to get more minutes down the middle. Zary’s experience playing center in the American League and junior hockey has prepared him for an increased role if asked.

He noted,

"I’ve played center in the American League and junior, so I understand the concept around center. So it’s not really anything that’s new that I’m trying to pick up on. It’s just little things here and there,"

When it comes to special teams, the Flames will want to see how much he can handle. Will he become a regular on the power play? Will he get more minutes short-handed? He spent all of six seconds on the penalty kill in 2023-24. He ranked seventh on the team in power play minutes per game. However, he ranked 14th in power-play goals per 60.

This Could Be The Season Zary Shows What He Is As an NHLer

As one of Calgary’s most promising young forwards, Zary is poised for a breakout year. The Flames will be counting on his development, hoping he turns into a consistent producer who becomes integral to the team's top six.

Whether he ends up as a center or on the wing remains to be seen. But, Zary is ready to seize any opportunity.