The Calgary Flames could look a lot different next season. After seeing star Johnny Gaudreau walk in free agency last week, the Flames are now also bracing for the exit of All-Star winger Matthew Tkachuk.
According to multiple reports, Tkachuk has told the Flames that he won’t sign an extension with the franchise. The 24-year-old player is currently a restricted free agent and will become an unrestricted agent next summer. This development has got Calgary’s front office working the phones in order to avoid losing such an impactful player for nothing.
Tkachuk’s agent reportedly provided the Flames with the list of his preferred destinations and teams he would be willing to sign long-term. Although Calgary doesn’t have to honor his request, it is in their favor to do so. Any team that isn’t on the list will avoid giving up significant assets for the player, knowing he can leave for nothing after just one year.
So far, the most likely destination for Matthew Tkachuk is the St. Louis Blues. Tkachuk grew up in St. Louis, supporting the Blues as his father, Keith Tkachuk, played for the team for nine seasons.
Tkachuk, who made his debut in 2016–17, has played 431 games for the Flames and contributed 382 points (152 goals and 230 assists). He was an All-Star in 2020 and has NHL Second All-Star Team honors from this past season.
