Hunter Brzustewicz Eyes Flames Roster Spot
Hunter Brzustewicz, a 21‑year‑old defenseman, is vying for a spot on the Calgary Flames’ NHL roster. Head coach Ryan Huska praised his work ethic but stressed the need for game‑time performance. With a deep right‑handed defense group, Brzustewicz’s path to the NHL remains challenging but possible.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Hunter Brzustewicz has spent the past two seasons on the cusp of an NHL career, and the 2026‑27 pre‑season has put him in the spotlight. The 21‑year‑old defenseman is not part of the Flames’ initial eight‑player training camp group, but head coach Ryan Huska has made it clear that he is still in the mix. “Most guys are going to get two games to play and that’s your opportunity to show what you’ve got,” Huska told reporters on Sunday, underscoring the urgency for Brzustewicz to perform in the limited exhibition schedule.
Background: A Rising Defenseman
Brzustewicz’s journey to Calgary began in the Western Hockey League, where he posted solid numbers and earned a first‑round pick in the 2022 NHL Draft. He spent his rookie season in the American Hockey League with the Flames’ affiliate, the Stockton Heat, before earning a call‑up that saw him play 34 NHL games last season. In those outings he tallied two goals and five assists, a respectable return for a young defenseman adjusting to the speed of the league.
Despite that progress, the Flames’ roster construction has made the path to a permanent spot difficult. The team’s recent acquisition of right‑handed defenseman Simon Nemec, along with the presence of Zayne Parekh, Zach Whitecloud, and Brayden Pachal, has created a deep pool of right‑shooting blueliners. Brzustewicz, who shoots left, must therefore prove that he can add value beyond simply filling a slot.
Coaching Perspective: Work Ethic Meets Game Readiness
Ryan Huska has repeatedly highlighted Brzustewicz’s dedication during practice sessions. After the first three days of camp, Huska noted, “He’s done a lot of work on his skating over the summer, so you notice another step or quickness in him.” The coach also praised the player’s game sense, saying he “sees the game very well.” However, Huska made it clear that practice performance is only part of the equation. “Now can you elevate the pace a little bit? He’s shown in practice that he’s put the work in over the summer, so we’re looking forward to seeing him do it tonight,” Huska said during the pre‑season exhibition against the Seattle Kraken.
With only four pre‑season games scheduled this year, the Flames have placed a premium on those opportunities. Brzustewicz’s two expected appearances will be crucial for him to demonstrate that he can handle NHL pace, defensive responsibilities, and the physicality of the league.
Challenges and Opportunities
Brzustewicz faces an uphill battle. The Flames’ depth chart is stacked with right‑handed defensemen who are already on the opening‑night roster. Even if he makes the team, he will likely start in the American Hockey League with the Calgary Wranglers, where he can refine his game and earn a call‑up. The Flames’ coaching staff has maintained a consistent message: opportunities must be earned, not handed out. This philosophy aligns with Brzustewicz’s own statements, as he has expressed a desire to “play in the NHL every single day and make myself an everyday NHLer.”
Fans of the Flames may be frustrated by the lack of immediate playing time for a young player on a rebuilding team, but the organization’s emphasis on meritocracy suggests that Brzustewicz’s hard work will eventually pay off. Whether he secures a spot on the opening‑night roster or spends the season in the AHL, the next few weeks will be decisive for his career trajectory.
What Happens Next?
The Flames’ pre‑season schedule will determine Brzustewicz’s fate. If he impresses during his two exhibition games, he could earn a spot on the roster or at least a guaranteed call‑up during the season. If not, a stint with the Wranglers will provide him with valuable experience and keep him on the Flames’ radar for future opportunities. The team’s coaching staff remains patient, but the clock is ticking as the regular season approaches.
Regardless of the outcome, Brzustewicz’s commitment to improvement and his willingness to seize limited chances underscore his potential as a future NHL contributor. The Flames’ decision will be watched closely by fans and analysts alike, as it could signal a shift in the organization’s approach to developing young talent.
In the coming weeks, all eyes will be on the Flames’ pre‑season games and the performance of their young defensemen. Brzustewicz’s journey to the NHL is far from over, but the stage is set for him to prove that he belongs among the league’s elite blueliners.
Key facts
- Brzustewicz not in initial camp group but still in contention
- Coach Huska stresses need for game performance
- Flames have deep right‑handed defense lineup
- Two pre‑season games crucial for proving worth
- AHL stint possible if NHL spot not secured
Why it matters
Brzustewicz’s potential promotion reflects the Flames’ commitment to developing young talent and could influence the team’s defensive depth for years to come.
Frequently asked questions
What is Hunter Brzustewicz’s primary position?
He plays defense, shooting left.
How many pre‑season games does he have to prove himself?
He is expected to play in two exhibition games.
Who are the other right‑handed defensemen on the Flames’ roster?
Simon Nemec, Zayne Parekh, Zach Whitecloud, and Brayden Pachal.
Will Brzustewicz play in the AHL if he doesn’t make the NHL roster?
Yes, he will likely spend time with the Calgary Wranglers.
Sources
- [1] calgaryherald.com — originally reported as “Can Hunter Brzustewicz crack the Calgary Flames' roster?”
