The Saddledome remains one of the busiest rinks in North America, as the Wranglers return for another season as the Flames affiliate. With Wranglers season officially underway as of October 11th, nows a good time to take a look at what Flames fans can expect out of the 2025-2026 Calgary Wranglers.

Who’s On the Team?

Forwards: Andrew Basha, Aydar Suniev, Parker Bell, William Stromgren, Lucas Ciona, Rory Kerins, Carter King, Sam Morton, Clark Bishop, Dryden Hunt, Quinn Olson, Carter Wilkie, David Silye, Martin Frk, and Alex Gallant.

Defence: Etienne Morin, Hunter Brzustewicz, Artyom Grushnikov, Jeremie Poirier, Yan Kuznetsov, Nick Cicek, Simon Mack, and Turner Ottenbreit.

Goaltenders: Owen Say, and Ivan Prosvetov.

(Italics denote Non-NHL deals).

Assigned to the Rapid City Rush (ECHL)

Goaltenders: Arsenii Sergeev.

Season outlook for the team:

The Wranglers finished the 2024-2025 season with a 37-28-7 record last year, which was good for 6th in the AHL’s Pacific division. They also made the playoffs, but fell 2-0 in a best of three first round matchup against the Coachella Valley Firebirds.

Expect a large amount of the same players to suit up for the Wranglers this year, as well as the few new additions in Etienne Morin, Nick Cicek, Andrew Basha, and Aydar Suniev.

One area that has changed quite a bit from last season is their goaltending as three new goaltenders have entered the Flames system in the form of recent NCAA graduates Arsenii Sergeev, and Owen Say, along with KHL product Ivan Prosvetov.

The only major subtraction from last years roster is the 2000 born forward, Adam Klapka, who made the Flames out of training camp. The high potential forwards of Andrew Basha and Aydar Suniev will more than make up for that lost firepower.

Expect the Wranglers to make the playoffs again this year, which is a good sign in a rebuilding organization.

New Leadership

Clark Bishop was recently named the newest captain of the team, and look for him along with his assistant Alex Gallant to bring some veteran quality mentorship to the younger team. Look for Bishop and Gallant to set the standard for professionalism within the organization.

Expect significant growth both on and off the ice for the first and second year Wranglers as they adjust to the professional lifestyle.

New Coaching

Speaking of Wranglers captains, recently retired Brett Sutter enters his first season behind any bench as the head coach of the Wranglers. Look for new systems, strategies, and lineups for Calgary this season, as the new head coach looks to see what does and doesn’t work for his squad.

Behind the bench with Sutter will also bring returning assistant coach Joe Cirella, and new assistant David Lifton. Goaltending coach Mackenzie Skapski, and video coach Chandler Biggar also return for the 2025-2026 campaign.

Lots of Potential

With the state of the Calgary Flames as a rebuilder expect lots of up and down movement, especially of younger players. Players like Andrew Basha, Rory Kerins, Aydar Suniev, Hunter Brzustewicz, and Arsenii Sergeev could all be called up for a stint with the Flames this season.

Prospects to Watch:

Hunter Brzustewicz: The transitional defender plays a smart game highlighted by senses, quick efficient puck movement, and capable enough skating. Displays the potential to be a second pairing NHL defender.

Rory Kerins: The undersized playmaker has shown significant growth from an ECHL forward to realistic NHL potential upside. Most likely to be moved up and down in the system. His game is highlighted by solid playmaking sense, timing, and play facilitation.

Andrew Basha: Basha has had an unfortunate injury history that has extended his development timeline. The 2005 born forward is a solid two way forward with plenty of playmaking upside. His game is highlighted by strong skating, a high compete level, and a unique senses/physicality combination.

Are you going to watch any Wrangler hockey this season? Let us know in the comments below.

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