Calgary Flames depth forward Dryden Hunt is going to take a pass on unrestricted free agency.
He is instead sticking around the Saddledome on a two-year, two-way contract extension.
Hunt’s new deal, which was announced Friday afternoon, will carry a cap-hit of US$825,000 when he is on the big-league roster.
While this won’t be a top-of-the-ticker transaction, Hunt can be a versatile call-up option and a valuable role model for the youngsters on the farm team.
In fact, Matt Coronato has credited Hunt with helping to mentor him during his stint with the AHL’s Wranglers. Perhaps he can have the same impact on up-and-coming forwards like Andrew Basha, Matvei Gridin, Sam Honzek or Rory Kerins, his linemate for a big chunk of this past season.
Hunt appeared in five games with the Flames during the 2024-25 campaign, collecting three assists. The 29-year-old lefty was also a point-per-game guy in the minors, with 16 goals and 33 helpers in 49 appearances with the Wranglers.
Hunt was eligible to become an unrestricted free agent on Canada Day. If he’d signed in another city, he likely would have been introducing himself to a seventh NHL organization.
Instead, he’ll continue to strengthen his roots in Calgary, which also doubles as his off-season home.
Hunt has a grand total of 235 NHL games on his resume, with 18 goals and 54 points.