Insider Updates Latest on Connor Zary Contract Talks with Flames

connor Zary and theh Flames still have a difference of opinion on his next contract

One of the few remaining notable restricted free agents is Calgary Flames' youngster Connor Zary. Early this month, we heard about a 'gap' in numbers between the two sides. Now, weeks later, another insider has confirmed that this chasm is still in place.

Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet revealed on his 32 Thoughts podcast that it's not because either side is unhappy with the other:

I've just heard the two sides just have been apart... I don't think is a situation where the Flames don't like the player or the player doesn't like the Flames. I've just heard it's a disagreement on, 'if the term is X, this is what we think the number should be.'... I just think it's a difference of opinion.

He does add that "the good news is that it's starting to pick up."

Zary showed some tantalizing sneak peeks of his talent once again this past season, and it's obvious the Flames consider him a big part of their future.

Connor Zary with an incredible OT winner! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/VzeQFYLZ2R
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) October 10, 2024

What is the gap in Connor Zary extension talks?

AFP Analytics projected Zary to land a three-year, $3.4 million AAV extension. Word is that his camp is looking for something more in the mid-$4s, while the Flames are more down at the $3M - $3.5M AAV range.

The Flames have $15.4 million in cap space at this point, and Zary is their only remaining unsigned player. And whatever they land on won't be handicapping them next summer either, as they're projected to have almost $41 million in cap space.

Zary's sophomore season last year was very similar to his rookie campaign as far as production: He finished with 13 goals and 27 points in 54 games, compared to 14 goals and 34 points in 63 games the year before. His ice time ticked up by about a minute per game this past season, to 16:04 TOI, and he even saw some top-line minutes.

With both sides seemingly intent on reaching a deal, and the gap not huge, it doesn't appear that there will be any problem getting Zary signed in time for Flames training camp next month.