The Calgary Flames made headlines late Thursday night, January 31, 2025, as they acquired forwards Morgan Frost and Joel Farabee from the Philadelphia Flyers. This significant trade means the Flames are bolstering their lineup as they vie for playoff contention.
Calgary's general manager, Craig Conroy, announced the deal, stating it came together quickly. The Flames sent forwards Andrei Kuzmenko and Jakob Pelletier, along with two draft picks—a second-round selection in 2025 and a seventh-round pick for 2028—to the Flyers. Notably, no salary was retained by either team during this transaction.
“This came together pretty quick this morning, to be honest,” said Conroy. “We talked about these players last year and this year, but I think it never really made sense. It wasn't the right time or right return. Today, it really sped up and made sense for both teams.”
Frost, 25, has shown promise during his tenure with the Flyers, recording 25 points (11 goals, 14 assists) over 49 games this season. Drafted by Philadelphia 27th overall in 2017, Frost has faced challenges, including criticism and reduced playing time under coach John Tortorella. Despite these hurdles, his unique abilities as a center will be valuable for the Flames, who have sought to strengthen their roster.
Farabee, 24, also faced ups and downs this season, netting 19 points (8 goals, 11 assists) over 50 games. A first-round pick (14th overall) by the Flyers in 2018, Farabee's numbers have dropped from a high of 50 points last season. He currently is signed through 2028 with a $5 million cap hit, presenting Calgary with solid offensive options.
On the other side of the trade, the Flyers receive Kuzmenko, who had been struggling this season with just 15 points (4 goals, 11 assists) across 37 games. The 28-year-old forward, initially acquired from the Vancouver Canucks, has had previous success but now aims to reignite his potential with the Flyers. Alongside him, the Flyers acquired Pelletier, 23, who had 11 points (4 goals, 7 assists) this season, adding youthful talent to the rebuilding squad.
The Flames enter the trade with 57 points, currently holding the second Wild Card spot within the competitive Western Conference. This season has defied rebuilding expectations, but with Frost and Farabee added to the mix, they could secure their position.
“To be honest with you, I hadn’t been following the West super closely,” Frost commented upon hearing the news of the trade. “I mean, I knew the Flames were in it. But to see where they are, it’s definitely exciting. I think it’s a really good team, and hopefully Joel and I can come in and give them a little bit of a boost.”
When asked about the move, Joel Farabee expressed enthusiasm over joining Calgary alongside his close friend Frost. “I’m excited to be coming to Calgary with my best buddy,” said Frost. “I think having him do this whole thing with me is going to be great.”
Despite having experienced struggles this season, both Frost and Farabee believe they can make significant contributions to the Flames. Farabee’s strong two-way game complements Frost’s playmaking abilities, which Flames coach Conroy noted after the trade. “Morgan Frost is a center, a natural center, and something we were really looking for. Joel Farabee is proven two-time 20-goal scorer. We’re really excited about the guys we're bringing in.”
The upcoming weekend promises to be pivotal as the Flames prepare to face the Detroit Red Wings. This match will mark Frost and Farabee's first appearance for the Flames, placing immense importance on their performance as Calgary seeks to solidify its playoff aspirations.
Meanwhile, the Flyers have struggled of late, sitting seven points out of the playoff picture. With four losses in their last five games, they aim to restore momentum against teams competing for postseason spots. The acquisition of Kuzmenko and Pelletier showcases Philadelphia's focus on younger players and draft capital to build for the future.
Only time will tell if this trade pays off for both teams. The Flames are banking on immediate results to bolster their playoff chances, whereas the Flyers hope this transaction aligns with their long-term vision as they continue their rebuilding efforts.