Flames Make Surprising Announcement on Executive Contracts
The Calgary Flames made an unusual mid-morning announcement on Friday, revealing that four key hockey operations executives had signed contract extensions before the start of the current season. The timing of the press release raised eyebrows given the team's struggling performance this year.
Executive Team Secured Through 2027-28
According to the official announcement, general manager Craig Conroy received a two-year contract extension. The Flames also confirmed that three other top executives—Don Maloney, Dave Nonis, and Brad Pascall—have signed identical two-year extensions that will keep them with the organization through the end of the 2027-28 campaign.
The team's press release specifically noted that each of the two-year extensions were signed prior to the start of the 2025-26 season, meaning these agreements have been in place while the Flames have sputtered to a difficult start this year.
Timing Raises Questions Amid Team Struggles
The announcement comes at a curious time, given recent controversy surrounding the team's leadership. Maloney, who serves as president of hockey operations, recently created waves during an interview with Sportsnet's Eric Francis when he insisted that a complete teardown of the roster wasn't being considered despite the team's position near the bottom of the standings.
During that interview, when asked why Conroy hadn't yet received an extension, Maloney responded: "We keep that internal. We're not discussing that. We have a certain process we go through here." This response takes on new meaning in light of Friday's revelation that extensions had already been signed.
Nonis and Pascall both hold the title of senior vice-president of hockey operations and assistant general manager, forming the core leadership team alongside Conroy and Maloney.
In the official statement, Conroy expressed his commitment to the organization: "I am grateful for the opportunity to continue leading this hockey club. We have made important strides the last two years, and I believe in the culture of this team. We are excited about the future, and we are all committed to do everything we can to bring success to this franchise."
The unusual timing of this announcement, revealing previously signed contracts during a period of on-ice struggles, adds another layer to what has already been a challenging season for the Flames organization and its fans.
