Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports The Calgary Flames are moving closer to resolving their last major piece of offseason business. According to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, restricted free agent forward Connor Zary is expected to sign a three-year contract worth roughly $3.5 million per season. With the deal nearly finalized, the Flames are set to enter training camp with their roster intact and more than enough salary cap flexibility.
Calgary Flames making progress toward three-year contract with RFA Connor Zary
Zary’s new contract would mark the end of one of the longer RFA negotiations of the summer. Calgary initially aimed for a medium-term commitment, and talks are now tracking toward a three-year agreement that fits both sides. As David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period reported Tuesday, the two sides are “getting closer” to finalizing terms after steady progress in recent weeks.Cap space has not been an obstacle, Calgary still has over $15 million in room for opening night, per PuckPedia, with Zary the only unsigned piece remaining. The deal would secure Zary’s place in Calgary’s lineup through the 2027-28 season, keeping him under team control until he becomes eligible for unrestricted free agency. A $3.5 million cap hit aligns with AFP Analytics’ projections from earlier in the offseason, making it a predictable but important step for the Flames.
Connor Zary’s role with Calgary Flames heading into 2025-26 season
The 23-year-old forward has had a mixed start to his NHL career. After producing 34 points in 63 games during his rookie year, he posted 27 points in 54 appearances last season. His progress was slowed by two lower-body injuries, including a knee issue that ended his campaign prematurely. Despite that setback, Zary has shown steady growth and earned top-nine responsibilities, averaging over 16 minutes of ice time per game.Calgary will enter training camp without significant changes to their forward group, leaving Zary in line for a consistent role. Whether skating alongside Mikael Backlund or Nazem Kadri, he is expected to continue his development in a top-six capacity. A first-round pick in 2020, Zary turns 24 later this month and remains on track to become an important long-term contributor.With a new deal close to being finalized, the Flames and Connor Zary are set to put an end to lengthy RFA talks. The contract offers financial stability for the player while giving Calgary cost certainty for the next three seasons. Now, the focus shifts from negotiations to on-ice performance as Zary looks to build on his potential in 2025-26.Also Read: Carey Price trade talks heat up as San Jose Sharks emerge as front-runners in NHL rumors