The 2022-23 season was a big disappointment for the Calgary Flames. They went all in to win by acquiring Jonathan Huberdeau and MacKenzie Weegar and ended up missing the playoffs.
Now gearing up for the new season Huberdeau has spoken to the media about his expectations.
Huberdeau Adjusts To Calgary
Jonathan Huberdeau is entering his second season with the Calgary Flames. After a full offseason to prepare for being in Calgary Huberdeau says he is a lot more comfortable.
"I just feel like last year I didn't know what I was coming into, it was different for me," he said. "But it's nice to be finally settled, got a house here, I know what to expect. It's fun. It feels way more comfortable and I'm happy to be here."
This makes sense as the trade for Jonathan Huberdeau was not one that was expected. With a full offseason to plan and process, he will likely be in a better head space going into the upcoming year.
Huberdeau Wants To Become A Leader
In the same interview, Huberdeau admits to wanting to take on a bigger leadership role in Calgary. Huberdeau thinks that leadership is one of his best qualities.
"I can be a leader and that's one of my strengths", Huberdeau said. "Last year was more tough for me to kind of do it, but this year, I think I'm going to be a leader on and off the ice as well. I want to show that and show my teammates what I can do.
This sounds like Huberdeau wants to be a major part of fixing what went wrong in Calgary. If the Flames are to get back to their winning ways Huberdeau will need to step up his game big time.
A 60-point drop-off is unacceptable for what the Flames gave up to get him. He will have to get back to a point per game plus territory and help his teammates progress as well.