In a move that’s likely a precursor to another move a little ways down the line, the Calgary Flames made a roster adjustment on Sunday afternoon. The club announced that they’ve re-assigned forward Brennan Othmann back to the American Hockey League’s Calgary Wranglers.

Othmann was acquired by the Flames on trade deadline day, Mar. 6, from the New York Rangers in exchange for prospect Jacob Battaglia. He was assigned to the Wranglers initially and had five assists in 10 AHL games. He was called up by the Flames on Mar. 28 and made his Flames debut against Vancouver that night. In two NHL games with the Flames, he had a goal and an assist. (And was minus-4.)

So why sent Othmann back to the AHL rather than hold onto him for further evaluation? The simple answer is “the CBA.” Under the NHL’s collective bargaining agreement with the players, team are limited to five regular call-ups after the trade deadline, with only four players allowed up on the roster at a time on regular call-ups. (Teams get unlimited emergency recalls, as they’re needed to meet lineup requirements for games.)

Othmann was one of four Flames players on the roster that were up on regular call-ups. The other three are, in no particular order:

All due respect to Othmann: Brzustewicz and Gridin are basically regulars these days and Suniev is someone they really want to get a look-see at. And if you’re hoping to see any other Wranglers get a cup of coffee with the Flames over the last six games, Othmann is simply the easiest guy to send down.

The Flames’ active roster is now 26 players: two goaltenders, eight defencemen and 16 forwards.

They continue their road trip on Tuesday night in Dallas.