Report: Flames Would Have To Retain 30% Of Cap Hit To Trade Jonathan Huberdeau

According to Eric Duhatschek of The Athletic, if the Calgary Flames were to trade forward Jonathan Huberdeau, they would likely need to retain at least 30% of his $10.5 million annual cap hit. 

With seven years remaining on his contract and Huberdeau's production falling short of expectations since joining Calgary, moving his hefty salary would be a difficult thing. 

Once a 115-point player, Huberdeau has not replicated that elite output, which further complicates his trade value.

Was Anthony Mantha the key to Jonathan Huberdeau all along?? pic.twitter.com/uBVDPhvEJ8

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Duhatschek notes that unless Huberdeau can re-establish himself as a point-per-game player, the Flames are unlikely to find a willing trade partner without absorbing part of his contract. 

"For Huberdeau to attract any interest, he needs to re-establish himself as, at least, a point-a-game NHL player," Duhatschek suggests. 

However, with the Flames in a rebuild and sitting near the salary cap floor, they may be content carrying his cap hit for now while hoping he regains form. 

Despite the difficulty of moving such a contract, Duhatschek reminds us, "never say never" when it comes to navigating the unpredictable trade market.

Over his two seasons, in Calgary, the 31-year-old has recorded 27 goals and 80 assists for 107 total points across 160 games played.

Photo Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images