Reviewing the Flames Roller Coaster – Flames Unfiltered – Episode 240

FLAMES UNFILTERED

EPISODE 240|SEASON 6

Reviewing the Flames Roller Coaster

Listen to “Reviewing the Flames Roller Coaster – Flames Unfiltered – Episode 240” on Spreaker.

— EPISODE 240 —

In this lively episode of “Flames Unfiltered,” hosts Brad Burud and Kyle Lewis dive into a comprehensive analysis of the Calgary Flames’ performance during the 2025 season. As dedicated analysts and fervent fans, they navigate through key player insights, playoff eliminations, and discuss what lies ahead for the Flames. From Jonathan Huberdeau’s improved performance to the dynamic presence of Nazem Kadri, the hosts offer an unfiltered look into the team’s strengths and weaknesses. They also touch on major topics, such as Dustin Wolf’s impact as a goaltender and the peculiar narratives surrounding Ryan Lomberg’s on-ice contributions.

The episode further explores burning questions about the Flames’ future, including potential player roster changes and coaching strategies. Brad and Kyle reflect on the highs and lows of the season, including must-watch games, standout player performances, and unexpected disappointments. As the hosts discuss pivotal moments that defined the Flames’ season, they also shed light on potential developments for the 2026 NHL season. Delve into this episode for insightful discussion and playful banter, offering Flames fans critical analysis and engaging commentary on what awaits their favorite team.

Key Takeaways:

• Jonathan Huberdeau and Nazem Kadri provided essential performances, with Huberdeau making a significant comeback and Kadri expressing his value in crucial moments.

• Dustin Wolf’s exceptional performance was a highlight of the Flames’ season, ensuring his position as a reputable goaltender moving forward.

• The Flames’ playoff hopes were notably impacted by challenging games against St. Louis, highlighting the fine margins in the NHL race.

• Expectations were met and exceeded by players like MacKenzie Weegar and Kevin Bahl, while others like Ryan Lomberg left room for reflection on roster decisions.

• The 2025 NHL season for the Flames concluded with both encouraging advancements and areas for potential improvement, setting the stage for a promising 2026.

Notable Quotes:

1. “If I was going to put a lot of grade on him, I’d go like B plus, A minus area. I think he’s very, very good at key moments too.” – Kyle Lewis on Jonathan Huberdeau

2. “I love the direction of Ottawa. I, really do.” – Kyle Lewis expressing his views on the Ottawa Senators.

3. “It’s hard to believe, Kyle. Like, I’m watching the playoffs now, and it’s hard to believe that the season’s over for the Flames.” – Brad Burud on the Flames’ season end.

4. “This year was a pleasant surprise. So I don’t know why next year can’t be a surprise too.” – Brad Burud on the potential for the next season.

5. “It’s time to start looking forward.” – Kyle Lewis expressing optimism for the Flames’ future.

Listeners are encouraged to delve into the episode for a detailed breakdown of the Flames’ season and stay tuned for weekly updates and insightful discussions as Brad and Kyle explore Calgary Flames hockey in-depth.

About the Hosts:

Brad Burud and Kyle Lewis: Hosts of “Flames Unfiltered,” a podcast dedicated to discussing all aspects of Calgary Flames hockey. Brad and Kyle bring a broad knowledge of the NHL and the Calgary Flames, specifically, with engaging discussions and in-depth analysis of the team’s performance. Their passion for the sport and the team is evident as they delve into player performances, team strategies, and upcoming challenges, providing listeners with a unique, unfiltered perspective on the Flames.

Flames Unfiltered: Embracing Ups and Downs in the 2025 Season

Key Takeaways

• Roller Coaster Journey: The Calgary Flames’ 2025 season was unpredictable with various highs and lows, often leaving fans at the edge of their seats.
• Key Player Performances: Standout performances from players like Jonathan Huberdeau and surprises from new acquisitions made headlines.
• Coaching and Strategy Insights: The use of players and strategies by head coach Ryan Huska were often debated among fans and analysts.

Navigating the Flames’ Eventful 2025 Season

The 2025 season for the Calgary Flames was nothing short of a thrilling roller coaster. As Brad Burud and Kyle Lewis dissect the highs and lows, fans and analysts alike are left with a detailed view of a team dynamic as unpredictable as it was compelling. The Flames, despite not making the playoffs, offered moments of brilliance and head-scratching bewilderment, a dichotomy that defines an average season for many sports teams but feels particularly intense for a hockey-loving city like Calgary.

The journey is filled with complex narratives of player performances, coaching decisions, and the perennial hope that springs eternal in professional sports fandom. As with any team, dissecting and reflecting upon the season provides critical insights that propel discussions for what could be different or better in the next awkward dance that is professional sports competition.

Player Performances: Stars, Surprises, and Disappointments

Huberdeau’s Resurgence and Kadri’s Contribution

“There were certain points where I felt, maybe we gave up on Huberdeau too early,” Kyle Lewis mused, highlighting the player’s return to form. Recording 28 goals and 62 points, Jonathan Huberdeau re-emerged as a key player for the Flames. Although not initially meeting the fans’ high expectations, Huberdeau’s steady improvement painted a hopeful picture for the future. “He wasn’t the focus of criticism this year,” added Brad Burud, underscoring the player’s transformation from a contentious figure to a dependable force.

Similarly, Nazem Kadri demonstrated outstanding form by netting 35 goals and amassing 67 points. Lewis praised Kadri for being “worth the money,” even as debates lingered about the sustainability of such impressive figures given the contract specifics. As Burud smartly pointed out, the calculus of whether to trade such a valuable player amidst a solid season was a frequent discussion among fans, emphasizing the delicate balance of team-building decisions in sports.

Surprise Revelations: Coronato’s and Bahl’s Emergence

The season was marked by the unveiling of new talent and unforeseen contribution from previously unheralded players. Matthew Coronato was celebrated for his breakthrough, scoring 24 goals in 77 games. His development was ardently followed, with Lewis asserting, “He is going to score 30 to 40 next year barring injury. Guaranteed.” This enthusiasm captures how a fresh talent’s potential can energize a fan base battered by inconsistencies.

Meanwhile, Kevin Bahl emerged unexpectedly as a defensive force, transforming what might have been dismissed as a routine trade acquisition into a pivotal team asset. “Ball made that trade a slam dunk,” reflected Lewis, showing how surprises like these reinvent team narratives and deepen the fan investment in long-term team prospects.

Coaching Paradigms: Strategy, Choices, and Future Implications

The Ryan Huska Effect: Navigating a New Coaching Landscape

Ryan Huska’s coaching tenure during the tumultuous 2025 season saw varying degrees of success. Notably, the Flames outperformed initial predictions, which lent some credibility to Huska’s approach. “I would give him a B,” revealed Lewis, citing strategic missteps as a deterrent to a higher grade. Huska’s potential favoritism and player usage choices were recurring themes that many fans, including podcast hosts, debated vigorously throughout the season.

While the record offers an incomplete picture, understanding the balance between fostering a positive team culture and tactical precision remains a key challenge for Huska. The question of adaptability and strategy continues to be at the forefront, with fans eagerly waiting to see how Huska’s plans will develop further now he has gained experience.

Worlds and Off-Season Considerations: Preparing for the Next Steps

As the offseason looms, the Flames face significant decisions about their roster, strategic direction, and upcoming player commitments, with the World Hockey Championships posing opportunities and risks. For instance, Michael Backlund and Rasmus Andersson represent Sweden, but the revelations regarding roster decisions for team USA — particularly Dustin Wolf’s situation — shed light on complex player management dynamics. “I’m totally good with that,” remarked Burud regarding Wolf’s absence, highlighting the nuanced decision-making required during this period.

Reflection: Charting a Path Forward for the Flames

The current state of the Calgary Flames embodies the essence of sports narrative — a tale of rebuilding, unexpected stars, and managerial chess involving players’ futures. The hosts’ engaging and unfiltered analysis reminds us of the broader implications of sporting ecologies, often driven as much by off-ice decisions as the on-ice product.

As the Flames look ahead, the potential for leveraging insights from the setbacks and triumphs of 2025 offers a beacon of hope. Whether in the form of off-season roster reconfigurations, stars poised for a breakout, or coaching strategies that better optimize talent, the path forward is awash with possibilities. The only certainty, true to the spirit of “Flames Unfiltered,” is that the commitment to passionate discussion and refined strategy will continue to influence the team’s journey as it navigates the intricate dance of professional hockey.

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