The NHL injury report reveals notable updates affecting several teams as the season approaches its conclusion. For the Buffalo Sabres, Sam Lafferty's groin injury could sideline him for the upcoming game, which raises questions about depth and lineup adjustments.

In Calgary, MacKenzie Weegar is expected to be back for the upcoming game after missing a match due to a lower-body injury, while teammate Joel Farabee is dealing with an illness, casting doubt on his participation. The Blackhawks also face challenges as Alec Martinez and Jason Dickinson both exited their latest game early due to hits and scrums respectively.

Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers are navigating concerns around Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl's health, with Draisaitl's potential return appearing to be sooner than McDavid's. The situation remains fluid, with both players pivotal for playoff aspirations.

The Calgary Flames dominated the Philadelphia Flyers with a solid 6-3 victory, highlighted by a powerful first period where they scored four goals. Connor Zary led the charge with a pair of goals, opening the scoring and then doubling the lead shortly afterwards. Despite the Flyers' Noah Cates and Andrei Kuzmenko narrowing the gap, the Flames responded with strikes from Yegor Sharangovich and MacKenzie Weegar, solidifying their lead by the end of the second period. Sean Couturier made it interesting with a goal in the third, but Matt Coronato sealed the game with an empty-net score.

The Calgary Flames are strategically poised for the upcoming NHL trade deadline, currently battling for a playoff spot. Recent acquisitions, Morgan Frost and Joel Farabee from the Philadelphia Flyers, have bolstered their offense, yet challenges remain, especially in the face-off circle. The Flames are seeking to add a right-handed centerman capable of winning crucial draws. Long-term plans involve pairing a suitable player with defenseman MacKenzie Weegar as they eye prospects for the 2027-28 season's new arena.

General Manager Craig Connery emphasizes that while the Flames are keen to make improvements this season, they will not compromise their future by overpaying for trade targets. This foresight is critical as Calgary aims to maintain competitiveness while building a foundation for the future.

As the NHL trade deadline approaches, the Calgary Flames are in a unique position after a surprising trade that brought in Morgan Frost and Joel Farabee. Originally thought to be in a rebuilding phase, the Flames are now evaluating options that could enhance their roster. One of their main concerns is a lack of a right-shot center capable of winning face-offs, a need that’s been emphasized given their poor performance in this area. Additionally, a top-four defenseman to pair with MacKenzie Weegar is crucial for their long-term strategy.

The Flames are balancing short-term gains with future aspirations, especially as they look ahead to a new arena slated to open in 2027. They are committed to building a sustainable competitive team rather than making impulsive decisions that could jeopardize their future prospects.

The Calgary Flames enter the NHL break after a disappointing defeat against the Seattle Kraken, where they squandered a two-goal lead, culminating in a 3-2 loss. Coach Ryan Huska recognized the need for the upcoming pause as the team struggles, now three points behind the Vancouver Canucks for the final wild-card spot in the Western Conference.

Despite a strong start and a solid home record earlier in the season, the Flames have faltered late in games, with defenceman MacKenzie Weegar expressing frustration over the missed opportunity. The team had been dominant when leading after two periods, but this loss highlighted a growing complacency, according to Weegar. Jonathan Huberdeau, who played a pivotal role in establishing a 2-0 lead, took responsibility for a critical turnover that led to the Kraken's comeback.