Connor Zary and Calgary Flames contract talks: What’s holding up the deal?
The Calgary Flames are facing a contract negotiation challenge with center Connor Zary, their first-round draft pick in 2020. Despite having ample salary cap space and a need for young talent, a deal has yet to be reached as training camp approaches.
Zary, a 23-year-old restricted free agent, brings creativity and offensive touch to the Flames’ roster. However, injuries have hindered his development and he has struggled to secure a defined role, often playing on the wing and moving between lines. The acquisition of Morgan Frost, a forward with a similar playing style, has added to the uncertainty surrounding Zary’s future with the team.
In contract negotiations, Zary’s camp is likely looking at comparables such as Matt Coronato and Frank Nazar. Coronato, with slightly better boxcar stats, signed a seven-year deal with a $6.5 million average annual value (AAV), while Nazar signed a similar deal with a $6.6 million AAV. Zary’s camp may be seeking a longer-term contract to provide financial security and stability given his injury history and unsettled role.
On the other hand, the Flames may be hesitant to commit to a high-priced, long-term deal for Zary without seeing more consistent performance. With options like Frost and concerns about Zary’s lack of arbitration rights, the team may prefer a shorter-term bridge deal to assess his progress.
As training camp approaches, a resolution is expected soon. A short-term deal closer to $3 million annually is a likely outcome, with Zary needing to prove himself for a bigger payday in the future. The negotiation process has become a test of patience and positioning for both sides, with the Flames seeking flexibility and Zary betting on himself to secure a more significant role in Calgary’s future plans.
