Calgary Flames Trade Chris Tanev for Artem Grushnikov, Draft Picks in Three-Way Deal

The Calgary Flames made a significant move in the NHL trade market, sending defenseman Chris Tanev to the Dallas Stars in exchange for Artem Grushnikov, along with a 2024 second-round pick and a conditional 2026 third-round pick in a complex three-way deal involving New Jersey.

Calgary Flames’ general manager Craig Conroy expressed enthusiasm about acquiring Grushnikov, a promising 20-year-old defensive prospect currently showcasing his skills in the AHL with the Texas Stars. Grushnikov, originally from Voskresensk, Russia, has been a notable player in the OHL with the Hamilton Bulldogs before making the transition to professional hockey.

Grushnikov, drafted by the Stars in the second round of the 2021 NHL Draft, has made an impact in the AHL this season, tallying one goal and five assists in 44 games. His defensive prowess and penalty-killing abilities have caught the attention of the Flames’ management, who see him as a valuable addition to their roster.

The Flames’ decision to part ways with Tanev, a seasoned defenseman with 14 NHL seasons under his belt, signals a shift in the team’s strategy as they look to revamp their lineup for the future. Tanev, a reliable presence on the blue line, will now join a Dallas defense populated by notable names like Miro Heiskanen, Esa Lindell, Thomas Harley, and Ryan Suter.

With the trade deadline approaching, the Flames’ trades of Tanev and Elias Lindholm hint at further roster changes to come. Speculation surrounds players like Jacob Markstrom and Noah Hanifin as potential pieces in future deals as Calgary aims to position itself for success in the seasons ahead.