The Calgary Flames continue to search for help down the middle, and one NHL insider believes Montreal Canadiens forward Kirby Dach could be an intriguing option.
NHL insider Frank Seravalli reported that the Flames have been keeping close tabs on Dach, with the organization reportedly following up with Montreal since training camps opened.
“Down Highway 2, the Flames are in desperate search for a No. 1 center — and since those guys don’t grow on trees, Dach is the next best option, to play in concert with someone like Morgan Frost,” Seravalli wrote.
The 25-year-old would certainly fit the profile of the type of player the Flames have been targeting. He stands 6-foot-4 and was selected third overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2019 NHL Draft before being traded to Montreal in 2022.
Dach has struggled to stay healthy throughout his career, however, and appeared in just 37 games last season. He finished the campaign with eight goals and 15 points.
Still, Seravalli noted that Calgary has shown a willingness to acquire young players with significant upside, pointing to the Flames’ recent acquisition of defenceman Simon Nemec as an example.
The Flames are not the only Alberta team interested in Dach. Seravalli reported that the Edmonton Oilers have also kept close tabs on the forward, with Edmonton’s interest described as particularly strong.
Montreal, meanwhile, does not appear to be in a rush to move Dach. Multiple teams were believed to have offered a second-round pick for him in June, but the Canadiens were looking for immediate roster help or a package that could help them acquire another significant player.
That could make a deal difficult for Calgary, but the Flames’ reported interest in Dach is worth monitoring as they continue their search for a potential top centre.
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