Flames re-sign Adam Ruzicka to two-year deal ($762,500 AAV)

On the morning that training camp opens, the Calgary Flames have re-upped their final remaining restricted free agent. The club has announced that they’ve signed forward Adam Ruzicka to a two-year deal with a $762,500 AAV. It’s a two-way deal in 2022-23 and a one-way deal in 2023-24.

(Ruzicka is waiver eligible this season. A one-way deal just means he’ll earn his NHL salary in the NHL or AHL, while two-way would specify different salaries in the two different leagues.)

Ruzicka, 23, is a product of Slovakia and was a fourth-round selection by the Flames in the 2019 NHL Draft. He had a monster season in 2021-22, playing for his nation in the Olympic qualifiers, then playing 28 games with the Flames as a fourth liner after getting off to a great start for Stockton in the AHL. He ended up registering five goals and 10 points for the Flames.

A unique combination of size and skill, Ruzicka projects well at the NHL level, but arguably just needs to brush up on the details of his game away from the puck. But he’s got a nose for the net and his offensive skillset is enough to get him into the NHL; time will tell if the rest of his game will keep him there. He’s definitely in the mix for a roster spot in Flames training camp.

Players report on Wednesday morning to main camp for medicals, with on-ice sessions beginning on Thursday.