Calgary Flames are enjoying Connor Zary's performance as a winger despite potential future as a centre
Sometimes, you have to prioritize getting the most out of a player in the shorter term rather than looking too far into the future. Even though the Calgary Flames are rebuilding, that's the situation they find themselves in with Connor Zary.
The just-turned 23-year-old (as of today) NHL sophomore was drafted as a centre. He may very well be the long-term solution for one of the top two roles at that position but, for now, the Flames look content to keep him on the wing.
And why shouldn't they? Zary has been impressive already in the preseason, joining centre Mikael Backlund and winger Blake Coleman. He thrived as a rookie last year primarily playing on the flank with Nazem Kadri in the middle and Martin Pospisil on the other side.
Don't mess with success.
There's plenty of time for the young player to transition to the middle when there's a more dire organizational need. At the moment, they have Backlund and Kadri, are giving Pospisil a long look after he played there successfully in international competition over the spring and summer, and Kevin Rooney, Cole Schwindt and a host of other hopefuls could easily fill in on the fourth line.
Yegor Sharangovich also spent some time in the middle last season and could slide over again if needed.
Letting Zary continue to thrive offensively at the NHL level will help him establish himself as a confident threat. He can develop consistency, improve his strength and speed, and rely on the natural talent he's shown so far. Down the road, when trades or injuries open spots — Zary can spend some more time in the middle.
For now, though, rather than throwing all the pressures that come with the responsibilities of a pivot, the Flames should enjoy watching one of their first round picks develop into one of the team's most promising young stars.
Keeping Zary on the wing with Pospisil and fellow second-year NHLer Matthew Coronato in their fourth exhibition game on Wednesday night against the Vancouver Canucks suggests the Calgary Flames may feel the same way about Zary's development path.