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MacKenzie Weegar’s Hot Start Could Stir Up Trade Speculation

jim parsons
·2 min read

MacKenzie Weegar’s hot start to the 2024-25 season has reminded everyone of his value to the Calgary Flames, making him a key player as the team rolls on after a 2-0 start. His early production also potentially makes him a trade asset as the team continues its rebuild.

Through two games, Weegar has notched three points, including two goals, while averaging over 23 minutes of ice time per game. His performance on the power play and his overall effectiveness have not gone unnoticed. If he continues to roll, how long before teams pick up the phone to see if he is available?

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Despite his impressive contributions, Weegar’s name hasn’t been prominent in trade discussions—likely due to his lengthy contract, which has seven seasons (including this one) remaining at $6.25 million per year. However, as noted by Sean McIndoe of The Athletic (subscription required), it’s only a matter of time before teams around the league start to show interest in a player as productive and reliable as Weegar.

McIndoe points out that last season, he was one of just four NHL defensemen to score 20 goals, joining the likes of Cale Makar, Rasmus Dahlin, and Roman Josi. It's a fool's lament to talk about players who are "on pace for..." after two games, but Weegar has two goals in two games. Early indications are he'll hit 20 again with ease.

As the Flames rebuild, Weegar could become an attractive trade piece, especially for teams looking for a two-way defenseman with strong offensive upside. With the rising salary cap, his contract is beginning to look like a bargain.

Weegar Isn't Looking to Leave

Though Weegar has a full no-trade clause and has expressed a desire to stay in Calgary to help turn the team around, the Flames could face a tough decision if a competitive offer comes their way.

With the team off to an unexpectedly strong start, should they remain competitive, Weegar's desire to see this through in Calgary will only grow. Eric Francis of Sportsnet shared that Weegar mentioned he’s got no intentions of bailing on the roster. He explained:

“Obviously when we signed here we didn’t think it was going to turn out like this, but that happens, things can change quick in this league. I’m here for a long time. I love the city. It’s easy to ask for a trade, but I grew up not to be a quitter.”

He added, “I want to stay here. I want to win a Cup here, I’ve said that."

If Weegar keeps up his strong play, he may very well find himself at the center of trade rumors, despite his commitment to staying with the Flames. For a team looking to reshape its roster, his value as a top-tier defenseman could become too great to ignore.