The Calgary Flames have called up forward William Stromgren from the AHL's Calgary Wranglers, positioning him for a potential NHL debut. This move comes in response to forward John Beecher's one-game suspension and subsequent injury. Stromgren has shown strong form in the minors this season.
The Calgary Flames announced the recall of 22-year-old forward William Stromgren from their AHL affiliate, the Calgary Wranglers, on Monday. This marks the first NHL call-up for the Swedish prospect, who was selected in the second round of the 2021 NHL Draft. In 33 games with the Wranglers this season, Stromgren has recorded six goals and 23 assists for 29 points, making him the third-leading scorer on the team. Over the past two weeks, he has been particularly productive, tallying nine points (four goals and five assists) in six games.
The recall addresses immediate needs in the Flames' lineup. Forward John Beecher, 24, was suspended for one game by the NHL Department of Player Safety after throwing a late punch at Nashville Predators forward Michael McCarron during Saturday's game. Beecher also sustained an injury in a separate fight with Nicolas Hague later in the matchup, with the Flames yet to disclose the extent of his absence.
Stromgren, who signed a three-year entry-level contract with Calgary in March 2023 after one SHL season with Brynäs, enters the final year of his deal. His junior career included stints with Rögle in the SHL and as a product of Svedjeholmen. Earlier this season, the Flames have given NHL opportunities to other Wranglers players like Sam Honzek, Yan Kuznetsov, and Hunter Brzustewicz.
Meanwhile, other Flames news includes defenceman Zayne Parekh drawing attention for comments at the World Juniors about NHL players lacking personality, which reportedly irked some teammates. Forward Martin Pospisil is progressing toward a return from an undisclosed injury, with GM Craig Conroy indicating he could resume skating in January. The Flames face the Seattle Kraken on Monday before a five-game road trip.