Might the Flames Chase a Top-Six Center From the Senators?

The Calgary Flames, specifically GM Craig Conroy, have been open about wanting to add to the roster this season. He's said to be in the market for a top-six center who is still young and can be with the team for the next several seasons. Interestingly, the Ottawa Senators might be moving a player who fits that description.

According to Frank Seravalli, Senators’ centreman Josh Norris is being discussed as a trade option to shake things up in Ottawa. The Sens are 10-12-1 on the season and starting to grow frustrated by their lack of progress as a playoff contender. Meanwhile, the Flames have been pleasantly surprised by their promising 2024-25 start and with significant cap space, are in a unique position to make moves.

If someone like Norris is an option, would the Flames be open to talking trade? Do they have what the Senators might be looking for?

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Conroy has expressed interest in acquiring a centreman who can produce points now, while also being a long-term piece of the team. Norris, 25, aligns almost perfectly with their vision. Despite concerns about his injury history, which has limited him in recent seasons, Norris has been healthy this year and is performing well with nine goals and 15 points in 22 games.

His past success—such as scoring 35 goals and 55 points in 66 games during the 2021-22 season—proves he's a potential point producer and if acquired, he would be part of the Flames' core.

There are certainly worse fits out there.

Is There An Issue With a Norris Trade?

The Flames might run into a snag based on reports of what the Senators are looking for should they decide to move Norris. The lone reason he's potentially available is that the Sens are looking for a reliable defenseman who can play now, eat big minutes, and replace the injured Artem Zub. The Flames have a player like that, but they aren't eager to part with him.

If the Flames were losing, someone like MacKenzie Weegar or Rasmus Andersson might be available. Because the team is playing well, Conory isn't about to rob from Peter to pay Paul.