Calgary Flames Extend Dustin Wolf’s Contract
The Calgary Flames have made a significant commitment to their young goaltender by extending Dustin Wolf’s contract for seven additional years, as announced by the team on Tuesday. This new deal, which will kick in during the 2026-27 NHL season, is valued at an average of $7.5 million annually against the salary cap.
Current Contract and Performance
Currently, Wolf has one year remaining on his existing two-year contract, which totals $1.7 million and was signed in July 2024. The 24-year-old goalie has demonstrated impressive skill and consistency, posting a record of 29 wins, 16 losses, and 8 overtime losses over 53 games. His performance included a commendable .910 save percentage and a goals-against average of 2.64, solidifying his role as the Flames’ number one goaltender following the trade of veteran Jacob Markstrom to the New Jersey Devils in June 2024.
Rookie Season and Recognition
Despite having played 17 games in the previous season, Wolf was considered a rookie as he only began full-time participation in the most recent season. His noteworthy performance earned him second place in the Calder Trophy voting, where he was recognized as the NHL’s top rookie, narrowly losing to Lane Hutson, a defenseman for the Montreal Canadiens.
Overcoming Challenges
Notably, Wolf was selected 214th overall in the 2019 NHL draft, with only three players chosen after him, which reflects the challenges he had to overcome, particularly concerning his height of 6 feet. This aspect of his physicality was a contributing factor to his lower draft position.
“I’ve been underrated my whole career, a large majority of it due to how tall I stand,”
Wolf commented, noting that this perception may have inadvertently allowed him to focus on developing his skills without external pressures.
