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Craig Conroy

Wolf Locked Up Long Term– Flames Unfiltered – Episode 256

Brad Burud/Kyle Lewis September 17, 2025


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FLAMES UNFILTERED

EPISODE 256|SEASON 7

Wolf Locked Up Long Term

Listen to “Wolf Locked Up Long Term– Flames Unfiltered – Episode 256” on Spreaker.

— EPISODE 256 —

In this episode of “Flames Unfiltered,” hosts Brad Burud and Kyle Lewis dive into the latest updates and expectations surrounding the Calgary Flames as they gear up for the new NHL season. With training camp just around the corner, Brad and Kyle discuss the recent offseason’s dry spell in hockey news and what lies ahead for Flames fans. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, they explore the implications of recent contracts and player performances.

The episode offers an analysis of recent Flames contract updates, including the promising signing of goaltender Dustin Wolf. Brad and Kyle express excitement over the potential impact of Connor Zary’s contract on the team’s future lineup and draw comparisons with other NHL goalies, shedding light on the competitive market for high-caliber players. The show notes also delve into the dynamic of keeping Michael Backlund long-term, assessing his value and leadership within the team.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Flames’ offseason was notably quiet, but new developments, such as Dustin Wolf’s contract, bring much-needed excitement for fans.

  • Dustin Wolf’s seven-year contract is considered one of the Flames’ smartest signings in terms of value and potential goalie backup plans.

  • Discussions on keeping Mikael Backlund underscore his leadership value and the importance of aligning player contracts with team dynamics.

  • The departure of Ryan Leslie to Toronto and Dave Lowry’s introduction as an assistant coach bring interesting changes to the Flames’ media and coaching landscape.

  • Anticipation builds around prospects like Sam Honzek, Matvei Gridin and upcoming rookies as training camp nears, with high hopes for emerging talent.

Notable Quotes:

  1. “At the end of the day, hockey is what we love by far the most.” – Kyle Lewis on the return of the NHL season.

  2. “Probably the smartest signing the Flames have ever made.” – Kyle Lewis on signing Dustin Wolf.

  3. “I think we’re gonna have some rocky roads ahead, and I think that’s okay.” – Brad Burud discussing future Flames challenges.

  4. “This is a team worth being a part of.” – Kyle Lewis on the Flames’ evolving roster and player commitment.

  5. “I feel exactly the same… as long as he’s effective on ice.” – Brad Burud on keeping Mikael Backlund.

This episode provides Flames fans with an in-depth look into the forthcoming season, instilling optimism and analysis into recent team decisions. Tune in to explore further details and insights from Brad and Kyle as they continue to bring unfiltered Calgary Flames hockey talk each week.

About the Hosts:

Brad Burud – Co-host of “Flames Unfiltered,” Brad Burud provides incisive analysis and passionate commentary on all things related to the Calgary Flames. With extensive experience in sports media and a deep understanding of hockey, Brad brings a seasoned perspective to the podcast, captivating listeners with his engaging takes on the Flames’ performances, NHL news, and player developments.

Kyle Lewis – As the co-host of “Flames Unfiltered,” Kyle Lewis complements Brad with his progressive views and insightful hockey analysis. Known for his in-depth knowledge of the sport, Kyle discusses player statistics, team strategies, and shares his perspective as a Flames fan, all while keeping the conversation lively and informative.

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Unpacking the Calgary Flames: Insights from Flames Unfiltered’s Season Opener

Key Takeaways

  • The impact of key player contracts and trades on Calgary Flames’ future lineup.
  • Challenges and transformations within the Flames’ media landscape and broadcasting.
  • Emerging talents and strategic shifts explored as the Flames embark on a new season.

Rethinking Player Contracts: A Strategic Outlook for the Calgary Flames

The latest episode of Flames Unfiltered kicks off with a deep dive into the Calgary Flames’ recent player contracts. Hosts Brad Burud and Kyle Lewis enthusiastically discuss the implications of these deals. As trade talks continue to thrive with intrigue, Dustin Wolf’s new long-term contract emerges as a pivotal moment for the Flames.

Quoting Brad Burud, “It’s by far the tidiest contract work that Conroy’s done yet,” referring to Wolf’s seven-year deal at $7.5 million per year. Both hosts agree that the deal is not only financially prudent but positions the Flames for a promising future. Considering Aiden Hill and Jeremy Swayman’s recent contracts, Wolf’s deal stands out, providing a solid financial strategy for the Flames.

Kyle Lewis emphasizes the significance of this signing, noting, “Wolf is just so, so skilled.†Underlying the optimism is a cautious realism about the upcoming season. Acknowledging Wolf’s talent, the hosts express concern over potential defensive challenges that might skew his numbers but remain confident in his future potential.

While the Flames’ roster deals with contract negotiations, the team’s media landscape is witnessing its own evolution. The extended conversation about Ryan Leslie’s departure to Toronto highlights the ever-shifting dynamics within sports broadcasting. As Burud and Lewis unpack the transition, they underline the strong legacy Leslie leaves behind.

Ryan Leslie’s move opens the floor for possible candidates to step up, with Brendan Parker identified as a front runner. In a candid discussion, the hosts touch on the importance of this role, suggesting that Calgary’s existing media talents like Cammy Koepka and Pat Steinberg could also bring fresh perspectives.

Yet, the deeper conversation stems from the state of sports broadcasting networks. As Brad Burud notes, “I feel like Sportsnet doesn’t care about how good Amazon’s production was,†reflecting a critical view on the network’s apparent complacency. The hosts critique Sportsnet’s operations, citing an absence of innovation and commitment to quality, especially compared to competition like Amazon Prime’s impressive NHL production.

Youth and Opportunity: Rising Stars in the Calgary Flames’ Camp

Amidst contract renewals and media realignments, Flames Unfiltered turns its focus to the team’s training camp. With the arrival of promising young prospects, the hosts anticipate an exciting season driven by upcoming talent. Discussions regarding Zane Perekh and Matvei Gridin illuminate the potential stars poised for the Flames lineup.

Matvei Gridin’s play is described as exceptional, with Lewis remarking, “Gridin has an unbelievable shot.†The hosts delve into Gridin’s growing skill, positioning him as a possible key player alongside Matthew Coronato. They voice excitement for the newcomer and other up-and-coming talents like Carter King and Connor Zary.

The analysis of Zary’s new contract reflects optimism tempered with prudence. Lewis notes, “Zary is much less of a sure thing but showed so well at times,†while they both express confidence that he will evolve into a key contributor to the Flames’ future. This focus on the emerging players elucidates the Flames’ strategic vision to revitalize their roster from within, fostering a sense of potential and renewal.

In navigating this roadmap, the Calgary Flames are not just managing contracts and broadcasts but crafting a strategic narrative for success. By nurturing young talent and making shrewd investments in players like Dustin Wolf, they underscore an ambition that extends beyond short-term gains. The broader landscape for the Flames involves balancing experienced mainstays with fledgling talents poised to redefine their game.

Embarking on this new chapter, Flames Unfiltered offers insights into not just the intricacies of player transactions, but the spirit and aspirations driving the Calgary Flames forward. These perspectives encapsulate the excitement and challenges that define an evolving franchise determined to stake its claim with both, strategic foresight and community spirit.

 

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Author

Brad Burud/Kyle Lewis

Flames Unfiltered features two passionate and opinionated hosts. Brad Burud has been with the show since the beginning and was the creator of the show. A Flames fan since 1986 he brings the old school approach to the show. As a Theoren Fleury and Mikka Kiprusoff fan he longs for the playoff runs he watched decades ago. Kyle Lewis joined the show for the start of season four. A Flames fan since the 90’s, Kyle is a huge collector of Calgary game-worn jerseys. Jarome Iginla was the hero for the Flames when Kyle started this journey and Iginla will always be a favorite. Kyle hopes this year’s version of the Flames can bring him the happiness he felt when Gelinas scored the overtime game winner over Detroit. Thanks for joining us. Sit back and enjoy some Flames hockey talk.

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