How Craig Conroy has reshaped the Calgary Flames in three years as GM

It’s been just over three years since Craig Conroy was named as the general manager of the Calgary Flames.

He came into the role at a difficult time, as there were several players in the dressing room who were said to be looking to go elsewhere. Rather than panic and rush into decisions, Conroy bided his time and has given this fan base exactly what they’d been dying to see.

Instead of continuing to try and fight for a playoff spot each and every year, Conroy has opted for a rebuild approach, trading out several veterans while bringing in plenty of draft picks and prospects. The proof is in the pudding when looking at the assets he’s brought in versus those who have been sent out over the course of his three years.

Colton Pankiw

As is shown, the Flames have made a clear emphasis on getting much younger under Conroy. While they have moved out several talented players, they’ve been able to not only stockpile draft picks and prospects, but also add some other veterans to help mentor their younger pieces.

Conroy and his staff aren’t done with this youth movement yet, either. The Flames have a massive trade chip in Blake Coleman, while others, such as Ryan Strome, Morgan Frost, Joel Hanley, and Brayden Pachal, are all set to enter the final season of their contracts. It’s very possible we see several of those names shipped out between now and next year’s trade deadline.

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