Flames second first-round pick has high upside after leading USHL in scoring

It's been a busy stretch for Matvei Gridin since the Calgary Flames tapped him as their second first-round pick at the 2024 NHL Draft. He has since signed an entry-level deal with the Flames, and been chosen first overall by the Val-d’Or Foreurs in the 2024 CHL Import Draft.

That's a good thing. Although he'd previously committed to the University of Michigan, some reports suggest his academic goals didn't align with the college path. Gridin disputed that at the recent Flames development camp, instead saying he wanted to endure the longer QMJHL schedule for his professional development. Fortunately, the CHL's ban on Russian players was lifted and paved the way to major junior hockey. 

Landing a super skilled defenceman with Zayne Parekh at ninth overall, the Flames went with the talented Russian product at No. 28. Gridin made waves with the Muskegon Lumberjacks in the USHL last season. The 6-foot-1 winger led the league in scoring with 38 goals and 83 points in 60 games. He had another goal and five points in eight playoff games. 

The Flames liked the raw skill Gridin displayed — something they picked up a lot of over the draft weekend. 

The Flames acquired the 28th pick from the Vancouver Canucks in the Elias Lindholm trade. He's likely a couple of years away from competing for a spot on the NHL roster but will benefit from the QMJHL experience. 

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