It won’t be to the same extent as last season, but the Calgary Flames could once again be major sellers at the trade deadline.
This was expected to be a difficult season for the rebuilding Flames, and that has certainly been the case through their first eight games.
While they picked up a win in their most recent game against the Carolina Hurricanes, they still sit at just 2-6-0 on the season. Those struggles make it increasingly likely that a number of players could be headed out the door at, or ahead of, the trade deadline.
Names that have frequently surfaced in trade speculation include pending unrestricted free agents Morgan Frost, Ryan Strome, and Joel Hanley. Defenceman Zach Whitecloud, who has one additional season remaining on his contract, has also been mentioned as a potential trade candidate.
While those names may continue to garner attention, Joel Farabee is another player worth monitoring as the deadline approaches.
Acquired during the 2024-25 season, Farabee has been a solid contributor since arriving in Calgary, providing reliable defensive play while chipping in offensively. The 26-year-old was one of just three Flames skaters to score 20 goals last season.
Although he has yet to find the back of the net in 2026-27, Farabee has continued to produce, sitting in a three-way tie with Morgan Frost and Matt Coronato for the team lead in points with five. Those who watch him closely will tell you he brings considerably more to the table than offence alone.
Through eight games this season, Farabee’s average of 18:25 in ice time leads all Flames forwards. That’s a good indication of how much trust head coach Ryan Huska has in him, and for good reason.
Farabee can contribute offensively while also handling significant defensive responsibilities. He’s averaging 2:20 per game on the penalty kill and 2:17 on the power play, making him a valuable option in virtually every situation.
That versatility could make him an appealing addition for a playoff contender looking to bolster its forward group ahead of the postseason.
Farabee is in the fifth year of a six-year contract that carries a $5 million cap hit. With the NHL’s salary cap continuing to rise, that could be a reasonable price for a player who can contribute throughout a team’s lineup.
Of course, the Flames don’t necessarily have to move him. At just 26 years old, Farabee could remain a useful piece of their future as they continue rebuilding.
However, if Calgary decides to explore the trade market, Farabee could be an intriguing name to watch. He has the versatility and experience to appeal to contending teams, and his age could give him value beyond a short-term playoff rental.
The Flames may not be looking to move every productive player on their roster, but if the right offer comes along, Farabee could be another name to watch as the trade deadline approaches.
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