The Calgary Flames have traded veteran forward Blake Coleman and defenceman Olli Maatta to the Minnesota Wild, acquiring blueliner Jake Middleton and a collection of draft picks in return, multiple reports confirmed Wednesday.
Trade Details
According to sources, Flames general manager Craig Conroy finalized the deal sending the 34-year-old Coleman and Maatta to Minnesota. The return includes 30-year-old left-shot defenceman Jake Middleton, who played 75 games for the Wild last season, and an undisclosed package of draft selections. Middleton is expected to slot into Calgary's third defensive pairing.
Coleman's Impact
Coleman, a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Tampa Bay Lightning, signed with Calgary as a free agent in 2021. He has been a consistent presence alongside Mikael Backlund, recording 20 goals and 15 assists last season. The trade comes months after the Flames opted to keep Coleman at the NHL's trade deadline.
"Blake is a proven winner and a key part of our room, but this move positions us for the future," Conroy said in a statement. "We thank him for his contributions and wish him well in Minnesota."
Middleton's Role
Middleton, known for his physical play and defensive reliability, will provide depth on the blue line. He averaged 17 minutes of ice time with the Wild last season and recorded 3 goals and 12 assists.
"Jake is a steady, hard-nosed defender who competes every shift," Conroy added. "He brings experience and toughness to our group."
Flames Rebuild Continues
The trade marks another step in Calgary's retooling under Conroy, who has prioritized acquiring draft capital and younger assets. The Flames have now moved several veteran players since last season, including Tyler Toffoli and Noah Hanifin.
The Wild, meanwhile, bolster their forward depth for a playoff push. Coleman's playoff pedigree and Maatta's defensive acumen add experience to Minnesota's lineup.
Further details of the draft picks involved in the trade are expected to be announced once the transaction is finalized.
