The Calgary Flames have made a move that could impact their defensive lineup, but it's a decision that has fans and analysts talking. Daniil Miromanov, the Russian defenseman, has been placed on waivers! This move, announced on Monday, opens up a world of possibilities for the other 31 NHL teams.
Miromanov's future with the Flames is now uncertain. If he clears waivers by Tuesday, he could find himself in the American Hockey League, joining the Calgary Wranglers. This season, the 28-year-old has only featured in one of the Flames' six games, logging 17:49 of ice time against the Vegas Golden Knights on October 14th, a game the Flames lost 4-2. Miromanov was unable to get on the scoresheet and finished with a neutral plus/minus rating.
This slow start to the 2025-26 season mirrors his previous year with the Flames. In the 2024-25 season, Miromanov played in just 44 games, often finding himself as a healthy scratch. Despite limited ice time, he managed to contribute 9 points (2 goals, 7 assists) and maintained a solid +2 rating.
But here's where it gets tricky for Miromanov: the Flames' top six defense spots are highly competitive. With the likes of Kevin Bahl, Rasmus Andersson, and Mackenzie Weegar, as well as the emerging talent of prospect Zayne Parekh, Miromanov faces an uphill battle for regular playing time.
Acquired in a trade with the Golden Knights in March 2024, Miromanov was a key piece in the deal that also involved two draft picks and Mikhail Vorobyev. The Flames clearly saw potential, as they promptly signed him to a two-year contract extension with a $1.25 million cap hit. However, with his current contract expiring this summer, the Flames' decision to place him on waivers raises questions about their long-term plans.
Miromanov has shown flashes of talent in his 94 NHL games, accumulating 23 points (7 goals, 16 assists). He also proved his worth in the AHL, scoring 70 points (21 goals, 49 assists) in 100 games with the Henderson Silver Knights.
As the Flames (1-5-0) prepare to face the Winnipeg Jets on Monday night, and the Wranglers (1-2-1) gear up for their game against the Coachella Valley Firebirds on Friday, one can't help but wonder: Is this the end of Miromanov's time in Calgary, or is there more to this story? And what does this move say about the Flames' strategy for the remainder of the season? Share your thoughts in the comments!
