Calgary Flames Make Roster Moves: Kerins Sent to AHL, Hunt and Morton Called Up
Rory Kerins has been sent back to the AHL by the Calgary Flames after a brief callup that lasted two games. This decision comes as Sam Honzek is out week-to-week due to an upper-body injury sustained in a recent game against the Winnipeg Jets. In place of Kerins, the Flames have called up Dryden Hunt and Sam Morton, both experienced players who could provide depth to the team.
While some fans may be disappointed by Kerins' reassignment, there are reasons to support the decision to bring up Morton and Hunt. Morton, who joined the Flames in 2024 after his college career, has been performing well in the AHL this season with four goals and eight assists. He is expected to fill the fourth-line centre role, allowing Connor Zary to move back to his natural position on the wing. Hunt, with 235 NHL games under his belt, brings experience and offensive production to the Wranglers.
Despite Kerins' strong performance in the AHL prior to his callup, Flames head coach Ryan Huska highlighted areas for improvement in his game, particularly in dealing with bigger and stronger opponents. Huska emphasized the need for Kerins to work on his speed and physicality to excel at the NHL level. While Kerins may have shown promise, the Flames are looking to develop his skills further in the AHL before giving him more opportunities in the NHL.
In conclusion, the Flames' decision to send Kerins back to the AHL and call up Hunt and Morton reflects their strategy to balance youth development with experienced depth players. While fans may have differing opinions on the move, the team is focused on maximizing player development and performance to improve their standing in the league.