The Flames have set their roster for the upcoming Qualifying Round. GM Brad Treliving told reporters, including Sportsnet 960’s Pat Steinberg (Twitter link) that defenseman Connor Mackey and forwards Glenn Gawdin, Matthew Phillips, and Adam Ruzicka won’t be with the team for their series against Winnipeg.
Mackey was the obvious choice of the group since he wasn’t eligible to play as his contract doesn’t start until next season. However, bringing him to the camp gave Calgary’s staff a look at their prized college free agent acquisition.
As for the forwards, Gawdin had a nice sophomore season with AHL Stockton, coming in just shy of a point per game with 47 in 53 games. He’s only a couple of years removed from finishing second in the WHL in scoring but he hasn’t made his NHL debut yet. Phillips also saw his point per game total jump in his second AHL season, collecting 33 points in 38 games in a season that was shortened due to injury while he missed time during camp (as did Gawdin). As for Ruzicka, he had 27 points in 54 games with Stockton in his first pro campaign. While the three have some upside down the road, Calgary has cleared opted to go with some more experienced options to round out their playoff roster.