2026/27 Calgary Flames Player Preview: Ryan Strome

Within hours to go until the trade deadline, the Flames acquired Strome for a seventh-round draft pick, and while it caused mass confusion among the fanbase, it was later confirmed as a replacement move for Nazem Kadri, who was dealt to the Colorado Avalanche.

To the shock of many, Strome hit the ground running in a way nobody saw coming with the Flames, as he took up a role on the third line, tallying 5 goals and 12 points in just 19 games played, a 52 point pace across an entire season. However, that's never been Strome's strength, as it's the balance and defensive responsibility as a two-way centre that excels as a leader, with 41 being his career high to date.

It's unclear if that offensive output can be replicated over an entire campaign, but with the team simply hoping that Strome can give them some value as a trade piece, optimism is high for the veteran.

What Role Will Ryan Strome Play in 2026/27?

What's also unclear will be Strome's role in 2026/27 for the Flames, as he will likely settle into a role on the third line, but with no clear path to either the powerplay or the penalty kill, it may be tough to maximize his value.

That means that the wingers alongside Strome will have a big job to do, and outside of Matvei Gridin and Matt Coronato being locked in as the Flames top line with Morgan Frost, there's no clear cut lines throughout the rest of the Flames lineup.

Still, Strome showed that given any opportunity, he can still produce in a big way, and given the experience he provides and the lack of centre's set to be available at the trade deadline, he's already very valuable for this team. Ultimately, until he's traded, Strome should be a key piece of this Flames lineup, and if he continues to drive play the way he did in 19 games a season ago, he could be a major piece to watch as the 2026/27 season begins in Calgary.

Final Predictions for Strome in 2026/27 (based on an 82-game pace, as he'll likely be traded): 12 goals, 25 assists, 37 points.