Calgary Flames rookie Coronato is set to return to the NHL after Pospisil injury — just in time for the Battle of Alberta vs. Edmonton Oilers.
Matthew Coronato was not in the Wranglers lineup Friday night, and it’s likely he’s already in YYC ready for his much-anticipated return to the Calgary Flames.
Just in time for the Battle of Alberta.
Fellow rookie Martin Pospisil’s injury paved the way for his promotion.
Coronato’s incredible pre-season helped the 21-year-old freshman make the Flames roster out of training camp. His exhibition success didn’t translate and the team tanked out of the gate as he scored just once and had two points in 10 games to start his NHL career.
He’s had one more game as a call-up since, but has thrived in the American Hockey League with the Calgary Wranglers — earning an all-star nod with 12 goals and 29 points in 27 games in the minors.
No official word has come from the Calgary Flames club, but Pospisil was skating on the right side with Nazem Kadri and Connor Zary, and Coronato played the right side with Kadri at times in camp.
Pospisil isn’t expected back until after the NHL All-Star break and the Flames are expected to place him on IR to free up another roster spot.
Adam Klapka was recalled this week and could also be an option to suit up for his first NHL contest, but Coronato is more NHL seasoned and a safer bet in the top six.
Head coach Ryan Huska suggested he liked Adam Ruzicka’s game filling in for Pospisil against the Toronto Maple Leafs, and he’s elevated Dillon Dube at times this season, but members of the organization — and the fans — are excited to see what Coronato can offer now that he’s honed his skills with the Wranglers.
News on defenceman Oliver Kylington is also expected on Saturday as his conditioning stint came to an end Friday night.