Sam Morton may not be a household name yet — but that could change soon.
The 25-year-old forward from Lafayette, Colorado, signed a one-year, two-way contract extension with the Calgary Flames on July 9, 2025. The deal carries an AAV of $775,000 and stands as a classic “show-me” contract — a short-term audition with long-term implications.
Morton is coming off a strong first full pro season with the AHL’s Calgary Wranglers, where he tallied 20 goals and 45 points over 70 games in 2024–25. A versatile forward capable of playing both centre and wing, Morton brings flexibility and depth to a Flames roster still seeking clarity down the middle.
He made an immediate impression in his lone NHL appearance last season, scoring his first career goal in his debut — notching the game-winning tally in the season finale against the Los Angeles Kings.
The ability to seize the moment has defined Morton’s rise. After joining the Wranglers at the end of the 2023–24 campaign, he recorded an assist in his first game and found the back of the net in his second. That early momentum carried into a standout rookie campaign last season.
Before turning pro, Morton captained Minnesota State University (Mankato), earning Player of the Year and CCHA Forward of the Year honours in his final collegiate season. Known for his leadership, work ethic, and two-way reliability, he’s drawn praise for both his on-ice contributions and humble, team-first attitude.
Morton has consistently earned every opportunity he's been given, and now, with a fresh contract and a full season of pro experience under his belt, he’ll be pushing to prove he belongs at the NHL level. If he continues trending upward, don’t be surprised if he forces the Flames to take a long look.
Sam Morton is not just a name on the depth chart — he’s a player to watch.
(Photo © Sergei Belski-Imagn Images)
(Photo © Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images)