The Flames are optimistic about the Penticton tournament

Matt Coronato and Sam Honzek are expected to be a big part of the future of the Calgary Flames.

Coronato was a first-round draft pick of the Flames, 13th overall in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft, and got his first taste of the NHL last season.

The 20-year-old played one game with the Flames and said the experience left him wanting more.

“I want to do it,” Coronato said.

“All I can do is play my best and do my best, but that's definitely my goal and I'm excited to start it here.”

IMPORTANT WEEK FOR CORONATO

Coronato gained more experience after the end of the NHL season when he played in the World Cup of Hockey in the United States.

Coronato says he feels stronger than ever and has worked hard to improve his skating in the offseason.

He knows the importance of getting on the ice ahead of the veterans and playing in the Young Stars Classic.

“It starts today with those skates (at Winsport). Every day is important and you have to prove yourself. Like I said, I'm really excited for Friday (the start of the tournament), but start today.”

HIGH HOPE FROM HONZEK

Honzek was the Flames' first-round pick, 16th overall, in this year's NHL Entry Draft.

He may be headed to Vancouver to play for the Giants this season, but Honzek says he'll do whatever it takes to make the Flames.

“My hope is to have a good tournament and show why I was a first-round pick, and whether I'm here or in Vancouver, I want to improve and develop.”

OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE FOR YOUNG PLAYERS

Flames general manager Craig Conroy said there will be opportunities for young players to earn a spot on the big club.

Trent Cull is the new head coach of the Calgary Wranglers and will lead the young stars in Penticton.

According to him, this tournament is important and gives a chance to make a good impression.

“I think if they have a great weekend in Penticton, they'll open the eyes of coach (Ryan) Huska and manager Conroy, and then they'll come back to base camp.

“It's a testing ground for the next two or three weeks. You've got to make sure you keep playing your game. I think if they do that, they'll know they have a chance.”

The Flames open the All-Star Classic against the Canucks on Friday night.

They face the Oilers on Saturday night and then close out the tournament with a game against the Jets on Monday afternoon.