Horak Demoted

 

Word came down today that the Calgary Flames have sent Roman Horak to the Abbotsford Heat. The return of a healthy and functional Brendan Morrison plus the pending return of David Moss means the Flames have more than a full roster up front.

Nevertheless, the move still seems somewhat surprising.

Horak made the team out of camp due to some injuries but has stuck around a lot longer than expected, often getting turns in the Flames top-9 rotation. His counting numbers are nothing too impressive (2 goals, 7 points in 25 games) and it’s not like he was knocking it out of the park in terms of possession or anything. That said, the kid didn’t play the easiest circumstances and mostly managed to keep his head above water, which is saying something for a 20-year old. The team seemed set on having him find his legs at the NHL level this year, but perhaps the over-abundance of bodies has forced their hand at this time. With a two-deal and being waiver exempt, Horak was the easiest body to move at short notice.

I have no doubt the Flames would like to delete Stajan and replace him with Horak as soon as possible. Stajan’s immovable, however. Unfortunately, it will likely take a few more bodies getting hurt for Horak to get back into Calgary’s line-up this season.