If there’s one thing the Calgary Flames have been the best at recently, it’s drafting. Due to their work in the last few drafts, the Flames have built up their prospect pool quite well, which is promising for the future. Among the prospects they’ve drafted this year, Ethan Wyttenbach has been turning some heads regarding his recent play.

Wyttenbach was drafted in the 5th round at 144th overall. With him currently having 12 points in 11 games with Quinnipiac University, the signs are there for his potential to increase as he develops. As fans watch Wyttenbach, questions have already arisen on whether the Flames have drafted themselves a steal.

Wyttenbach’s skill is undeniable

Despite only being 5’10, Wyttenbach has so much to offer for a player of his size. His raw offensive talent is something that’s immediately noticed when he steps on the ice, contributing to his strong numbers.

Wyttenbach put up 24 goals and 51 points in his draft year with the Sioux Falls Stampede of the USHL. In fact, his play and off-ice demeanour led him to become the first-ever recipient of the USHL’s Gaudreau Award. This award is given to the player who best embodies the legacies of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau.

NCAA U19 PPG:

Wyttenbach 1.09 (4th)
McKenna 1.08 (5th)
Reschny 1.0 (6th)
Potter 0.64 (11th)

NCHC is a way deeper league than the Big 10 (Reschny), so when the Flames Draft McKenna he’ll be their 3rd best Forward Prospect. It’s just math, math doesn’t lie.

— Western Hockey Scout (@Pete___Hughes) November 15, 2025

With the Flames drafting Wyttenbach, they are not only drafting a good hockey player but also a good person. As he continues his journey in college hockey, something to watch for is how his skill set grows so it can eventually translate to more professional levels of hockey.

Can Wyttenbach be viewed as a potential steal?

While it’s very early, chatter has begun on whether Wyttenbach could one day be in the category of draft picks that have turned into steals. In my opinion, it’s too early to say, but I can’t deny that the signs could be there. As I watch highlights of Wyttenbach, I’m amazed at how he carries himself on the ice. He’s got a scorer’s touch, great speed and a prominent hockey IQ. Not too shabby for a 5th round pick.

He’s a player Flames fans should definitely keep an eye on. Many draft models had Wyttenbach drafted much earlier than in the 5th round, so the fact that the Flames got him where they did is remarkable scouting. The excitement for this player will only grow as Wyttenbach transitions into higher levels of hockey.

The road is a long one for Wyttenbach

Despite Wyttenbach’s skill set and promise, the road towards professional hockey will still be a long one. He is one of many wingers within the Flames’ system, which means more competition. On top of that, with Wyttenbach being a 5th round pick and being on the smaller side, he’ll be expected to make a bigger case for himself on why he belongs within the pipeline. However, that’s also the case for pretty much every other prospect.

Either way, Wyttenbach is a player whom I’m quite high on. I was happy when the Flames managed to snag him in the 5th round, as he embodies skill and talent that the Flames should look to draft with all their selections. Wyttencbach will be a player I’ll definitely keep my eye on as the season progresses.

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