Calgary Flames Sign Nemec and Highlight Development Camp Standout

Calgary Flames announced a five‑year, $36.25 million extension for defenseman Simon Nemec on July 1, cementing his role on the top pairing as the team sits 14th in the Western Conference with a 34‑39 record and a one‑game winning streak.

What did the Nemec extension entail?

The Flames acquired Nemec from New Jersey on June 23, sending a first‑round pick in both 2027 and 2028, a 2026 second‑rounder and prospect Etienne Morin. The new contract carries a $7.25 million AAV, matching the market surge after Chicago paid Bowen Byram $12.5 million per season. General manager Craig Conroy told Sportsnet 960’s Flames Talk that Nemec wants big minutes and will see regular power‑play time. Conroy expects him to skate alongside Kevin Bahl on the top defensive unit.

How will Nemec fit into Calgary’s defensive strategy?

Conroy hinted Nemec could pair with Zayne Parekh on the power play, giving the Flames a more offensive‑minded blue line. Coach Ryan Huska may split the duo across different units to maximize their puck‑moving skills. The plan is to let Nemec quarterback the play while Parekh operates from the half‑wall, using his hard‑shot to generate scoring chances.

Which prospect stole the show at development camp?

Mace’o Phillips, the Flames’ 80th‑overall pick in the 2025 draft, turned heads during the July 5‑6 camp. Standing 6‑foot‑6 and weighing 234 pounds, he logged a one‑handed rush goal and followed it with a jaw‑dropping shootout winner. Conroy admitted he was “mouth‑wide open” watching Phillips, noting the club now expects more from the physical forward.

What does Phillips bring to Calgary’s future?

Last season with the Green Bay Gamblers (USHL) Phillips posted 11 points in 44 games and racked up 187 penalty minutes, nine of which came in games where he logged ten minutes or more. His size and willingness to battle in the corners suggest he could become a shutdown forward who also contributes offensively when needed. The Flames hope his aggressive style translates to the AHL and eventually the NHL.

How does this offseason shape Calgary’s outlook?

Signing Nemec locks in a top‑four defenseman for the long term, while the emergence of Phillips adds depth to the prospect pool. With the Flames currently 14th in the West, the moves aim to boost both the blue line and the physical presence up front. If Nemec and Phillips develop as projected, Calgary could see a noticeable uptick in power‑play efficiency and penalty‑kill stability as the regular season approaches.