Calgary Flames Acquire Brayden Pachal off Waivers from Vegas Golden Knights

The Calgary Flames have made a significant move to bolster their defensive lineup by acquiring Brayden Pachal off waivers from the Vegas Golden Knights. Pachal, a skilled right-shot defenceman, brings physicality and penalty-killing skills to the Flames’ roster.

Born and raised in Estevan, Sask., the 24-year-old Pachal has spent his entire professional career with the Golden Knights organization. He has played in 17 NHL games this season, recording a goal. Pachal’s time in Las Vegas has also seen him captain the team’s AHL affiliates, the Chicago Wolves and the Henderson Silver Knights.

The Flames’ General Manager, Craig Conroy, expressed his excitement about the acquisition, stating that Pachal’s leadership qualities and championship experience with the Golden Knights make him a valuable addition to the team.

Pachal’s inclusion on the Stanley Cup-winning roster in 2023, although he played just one playoff game, was a special moment for him and his family. He considers it a learning experience to witness the hard work and dedication required to reach the pinnacle of hockey.

While the Flames may not be considered favorites to win the Stanley Cup this year, Pachal has the opportunity to establish himself as a regular NHL player in Calgary. With 29 games under his belt at the highest level, including 17 this season, he has shown promise as a physical and defensively sound defenceman.

Pachal’s arrival also adds depth to the Flames’ blue line as the team weighs their trade options for pending free agents Noah Hanifin and Chris Tanev. The defenceman is signed for this season and the next, with an annual salary cap hit of US$775,000.

The news of Pachal’s acquisition was met with mixed emotions for the player. Leaving behind his second family in the Vegas organization where he developed as a player, he looks forward to a fresh start and building new connections in Calgary.

In addition to the acquisition of Pachal, the Flames have also called up forwards Jakob Pelletier, Kevin Rooney, and Cole Schwindt to join the team in Boston. Pelletier, who was expected to make the lineup this season but was delayed due to injury, is finally back in action with the Flames’ AHL affiliate, the Wranglers. Rooney has recovered from his own shoulder surgery and has shown promise in his four appearances with the farm club.

Meanwhile, Flames’ prospect Matt Coronato remains with the Wranglers in San Jose, allowing him to continue his development at the minor league level.