The Calgary Flames made nine selections at the 2026 NHL Draft in Buffalo, selecting two defensemen, six forwards, and one goaltender. Highlighting the class was top-tier two-way defenseman Carson Carels, who many felt would be gone before the Flames first pick at sixth overall. At Upside, we were impressed once again with the value extracted from this draft by GM Craig Conroy and staff. Grading things this early out is a little premature but if we forced to put a letter grade on it, we’d say it was a B+, though there’s plenty of upside that could elevate this grade as time ticks by. We’ve included out Quantum Upside Prospect Player Cards as found in our Upside 2026 NHL Draft Guide, along with links to our full prospect profile.
We had him as 8th best compete level and 10th best playmaker in the draft in our Upside Draft Guide.
Upon hearing explanations from Flames brass, we certainly see the upside of this pick.
How do you rate the Flames 2026 Draft Class?
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