As per an official announcement by the club on Friday, the Calgary Flames have sent defenseman Zayne Parekh back to the Saginaw Spirit (OHL) following training camp. Despite being a first-round pick and clearly talented, they have opted not to give their top 2024 draft pick an NHL audition this season.
Parekh, who was selected ninth overall in the 2024 NHL Draft, called the experience “humbling” and acknowledged that he needs to improve his physicality and confidence, especially in the defensive zone.
From what our own Steve McFarlane could see at camp, “Parekh flashes really solid offensive talent but has a lot to learn for positioning and defensive coverage.” This shouldn’t come as a surprise as he’s only 18 and jumping from the OHL to the NHL for a defenseman is not an easy transition.
While Parekh struggled to compete against the Flames’ older, more experienced defensive prospects, this shouldn’t be viewed as a disappointment or a setback. He’ll get an opportunity to continue developing his game while playing top minutes in all situations with Saginaw.
The Flames are also going through a rebuild without a huge expectation to win. Rushing their young prospects into the NHL is the last thing they should be doing.
Parekh Still Has a Bright Future with the Flames
Parekh had a standout 2023-24 season with the Spirit, scoring 96 points and leading them to a Memorial Cup victory. He was named the top defenseman in both the OHL and Canadian major junior hockey. He is an elite prospect.
Given the Flames’ organizational depth on defense, cracking the NHL roster would have been a tough challenge. Instead, Parekh will look to dominate the OHL and try to make an impression in next year’s training camp.
Another season under his belt is best for himself and the Flames. Some might argue it might have been nice for him to get a taste of the NHL, but there is plenty of time for that to happen. He will be a key piece of their blue line in the future.