Flames GM Brad Treliving appears to be making progress towards a contract extension with Michael Ferland.
The 23-year-old is the last of the team's restricted free agents that remains to be signed.
I hear #Flames and Micheal Ferland getting closer to deal. A little. Talked this week. Both sides may have to give in more than they want
— Roger Millions (@RogMillions) August 13, 2015Ferland is coming off a respectable campaign where he combined for 10 points and 46 shots on goal in 35 regular season/playoff games.
He also came out even in possession (relative to the team) and had a positive impact on scoring chances as the Flames generated about 2% more of the scoring chances with him on the ice than without him at full strength.
Despite a solid rookie year I think the Flames should be hesitant to give out too much term until he proves himself at the NHL-level.
He played fairly well during the regular season and playoffs but he was far from a world beater and I don't think 35 decent games is enough to justify handing out a multi-year contract worth a nice chunk of money.
We'll soon find out if Treliving feels the same way.