2026 Calgary Flames Prospect Rankings: #6 Hunter Brzustewicz

Brzustewicz has already gotten a taste of NHL action with the Flames. He appeared in 34 games this season, scoring seven points and making a case to earn himself a roster spot on the team’s blueline.

Brzustewicz’s development so far

Brzustewicz has begun his transition towards NHL hockey. As he gets a longer look with the Flames, he’s bound to improve and develop at a good pace. He’ll be getting every opportunity to show what he’s capable of, as he’ll very likely get more games in this upcoming season.

Brzustewicz’s Strengths

Offensive instinct

Brzustewicz has a natural feel for when and how to activate offensively. He doesn’t simply remain at the blue line waiting for a shooting lane; he recognizes opportunities to step into open ice, join the rush, and become an additional option for his forwards. His ability to read defensive coverage allows him to find space without constantly forcing himself into the play. Calgary’s own scouting department has highlighted his poise, deception and ability to create plays with the puck, while his junior production showed how much offence he can generate when given freedom.

Defensive development

Defensive consistency has been the major developmental focus of Brzustewicz’s progression. Coming out of junior hockey, his offensive instincts were considerably more advanced than his defensive game, particularly when it came to risk management and knowing when to activate. Calgary has deliberately used his time in the AHL to expose him to stronger, older forwards and allow him to become more reliable without the puck. The encouraging part is that he has already shown tangible progress. His mobility allows him to defend the rush effectively, while his positioning and active stick can disrupt plays before they reach dangerous areas.

Brzustewicz’s Weaknesses

Physicality

Brzustewicz isn’t a defenceman who dominates physically. His mobility and intelligence are the foundation of his defensive game, but stronger NHL forwards can challenge him along the boards and around the crease. Adding strength would help him maintain body position, win more loose-puck battles, and deal with net-front traffic. He doesn’t need to become an intimidating physical defender, but he needs enough strength to prevent opponents from taking advantage of him in the defensive zone.

Risk management with the puck

Brzustewicz’s confidence with the puck is a major strength, but it can occasionally work against him. He likes to make plays rather than simply getting the puck out, and that can lead to turnovers when he attempts a difficult pass or tries to create something through pressure. As he establishes himself professionally, he’ll need to become better at recognizing when a high-risk play is justified and when the simple option is preferable. Reducing those unnecessary turnovers will make his transition game more effective rather than taking away from it.

Brzustewicz’s next steps

Coming into training camp this season, you best believe that Brzustewicz will have the drive to earn a spot on the Flames’ opening night roster. Fans will likely be seeing the 21-year-old a lot more on the ice this upcoming season, as the team will give many young players real opportunities to make an impact throughout this rebuild.

NHL projection

Ceiling: Top-four offensive defenceman

Likely Outcome: Active second-pair defender

Floor: Bottom-pair NHL defender

NHL timeline projection

Brzustewicz will be competing for an NHL roster spot this upcoming season.

See our other articles on our list of prospect rankings for 2026:

• #7: Ethan Wyttenbach
• #8: Jack Hextall
• #9: Samuel Honzek
• #10: Tobias Trejbal
• #11: Andrew Basha
• #12: Aydar Suniev
• #13: Henry Mews
• #14: Theo Stockselius 
• #15: Mace’o Phillips 
• Honourable Mentions