Flames haven’t talked contract with David Jones yet

The Calgary Flames have plenty of business to take care of this summer, with 21 players becoming restricted or unrestricted free agents on July 1. There has been plenty of chatter about contract extensions for the team’s youthful dynamic duo of 21-year-old Sean Monahan and 22-year-old Johnny Gaudreau, and lots of debate about whether the team should attempt to retain defender Kris Russell and winger Jiri Hudler.

Veteran right-wing David Jones may be on the back-burner a bit right now – both in the eyes of fans and management – as a few dominoes need to fall before he becomes a priority. When I spoke with him prior to Saturday’s game against Edmonton, he noted that he has yet to have any contract talks with the Flames.

“Anytime you’re a UFA and your contract is expiring, you look at the possibility of being traded or sort of what’s next. As far as this team, I haven’t had any discussions with them. It’s a matter of just going out and trying to win. Playoffs last year helps everyone and if we can get back there, I think it’ll be good for everyone,” said Jones.

This is the second time the 31-year-old Jones has faced potential unrestricted free agency. The last time his contract was up, following the 2011-12 season, he was re-signed by Colorado before he ever hit the open market. For what it’s worth, he seems to be taking the experience in stride and doesn’t seem fazed at all about the uncertainty around his future with the club.

“Whatever team you’re looking at, you’ve got to earn your spot,” said Jones. “I don’t do it any differently. I prepare for the games the same way and I think I bring a lot of value. I just concentrate, play hard, and all that stuff kind of takes care of itself. I think a lot of teams know what I bring, I think this team knows what I bring so we’ll just see where everything settles after the season.”

In 150 games with the Flames since 2013-14, Jones has 30 goals and 59 points.