The Calgary Flames can finally feel a bit better about their long-term future. The team just managed to hammer out an extension with newly acquired forward Jonathan Huberdeau that ties the two-time All-Star to the franchise through the 2030-31 NHL season.
The Flames had a rough summer, seeing their top two scorers, Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew Tkachuk, walk out the door last month. Gaudreau departed in free agency, while Tkachuk was traded to the Florida Panthers after refusing an extension.
Many believed that the Flames would be in a similar situation next summer, considering that Huberdeau, who was the centerpiece of the return from the Tkachuk trade, was set to become a free agent next summer. However, using the money that was intended for Gaudreau and Tkachuk, the franchise managed to get a long-term commitment from the Quebec native earlier than expected.
Huberdeau’s eight-year is reportedly worth a total of 84 million and comes with a $10.5 million annual salary on average. The 29-year-old player will earn $6.2 million in 2022-23 while playing in the last year of his old deal.
“I’m thrilled to be part of the Calgary Flames organization long-term,” Huberdeau said after the deal was made official. “I’m excited for this new chapter and I am committed to this team. I’ll give everything I have, on and off the ice and I can’t wait to play in front of the passionate Flames fans.”
Huberdeau was second in the league last season with 115 points. He led all NHL players with 85 assists while also adding 30 goals.
