Flames Players Who Could Be Deferred Contract Candidates

The Seth Jarvis contract with the Carolina Hurricanes has many fans wondering if any players on their teams might be suitable candidates for a deferred contract like his. The Calgary Flames aren't hurting for cap space, but they might have a few options where that style of contract could come in handy.

If GM Craig Conroy wants to build his team and keep the salary cap in mind as he does, there are a few players who might make for ideal deferred contract candidates. Knowing they can't go backward on players like Jonathan Huberdeau and Mackenzie Weegar, the Flames can avoid similar cap hit issues going forward.

Andrei Kuzmeko

Andrei Kuzmenko is as likely a trade candidate this season as he is a player who could get another deal with the Flames. But, if the organization sees him as someone they want to invest in longer term, a deal where some of his contract is deferred might make sense.

For example, if the Flames want to sign him to a four or five-year deal, they could defer a couple million of the salary he might be owed, lowering the cap hit by $500K to $1 million per season. It could be a good way to give him a deal, but not sign him to a cap hit that would require he live up to a larger AAV as an offensive player who isn't known for his defensive game.

Connor Zary

Connor Zary is approaching the final season on his entry-level deal and will be an RFA in 2025-26. If the Flames see him as a big part of their future and want to forego a bridge deal, they could opt for a long-term extension, deferring some of the payment until his later years.

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The issue here is that Zary is extremely young and whatever this long-term deal looks like, it won't be the only one he signs in the NHL should he turn out to be a solid NHL player. It could be asking a lot of a 22-year-old (23 at the time he signs again) to hold off on collecting some of his money. This will be his first chance to earn a significant payday. He'll likely want his money as he plays. In fact, he might want signing bonuses and money upfront.

Future Free Agents

The reality is, should NHL teams see deferred contracts as a way to sign future UFAs, the Flames might elect to do so when they feel they are ready to compete. It won't be this season and likely not next season. However, as the Flames' young stars grow into consistent performers, Conroy might want to round out the roster with proven players.

Should the Flames identify stars on the back nine of their careers, deferred contracts could be a way to be a way to add depth and keep cap hits low.