Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks working on a head-turning trade
Photo credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
The Connor Zary trade market just got a little clearer, and Vancouver is part of it.
Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman revealed that the Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks have held discussions about moving the forward, with a contract possibly coming back the other way.
I think they have discussed taking a contract back [in a trade]; they talked about it with Vancouver, I don't know how likely that is; I think there's a couple other teams still...in on this
Friedman made it clear he is unsure how likely a deal with Vancouver really is, and he noted that a couple of other clubs remain involved.
Why Calgary Is Willing to Take Salary Back
The Flames placed Zary on waivers on October 5 and he cleared, sending him to the Calgary Wranglers in the AHL. His $3.775 million cap hit runs through the 2027-28 season, which is the main reason no club grabbed him for free.
Calgary has been shopping the 25-year-old, and agreeing to take a contract back could help a partner fit his salary without the Flames using their last retention spot.
Zary was the 24th overall pick in 2020 and has 39 career goals, all with Calgary. He scored 34 points as a rookie in 2023-24, but his ice time has slipped since, and a fresh start could suit a player with his skill.
What Vancouver Could Bring Back
Vancouver is a natural fit on paper as a rebuilding team that could use another forward with upside. A deal that sends a different contract to Calgary would be one creative way to make it work.
Still, Friedman sounded cautious, and with other clubs circling, the Canucks will have competition for a player who has not yet found his footing in Calgary this season.
For now, this remains a conversation rather than a done deal. Zary is playing in the AHL, his contract is manageable but not cheap, and Calgary is clearly open to creative solutions. Expect more teams to weigh in soon.
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