On Friday, September 27th, the Calgary Flames announced their first-round draft pick from this year is heading back to junior. Zayne Parekh was selected 9th overall in the 2024 NHL entry draft from the Saginaw Spirit. Parekh put up gaudy offensive numbers in his draft year. Piling up 96 points, including 33 goals in the OHL leading all defencemen. Fans in Calgary were thrilled by the selection and had big expectations for the young defenceman heading into his first professional training camp. Although most fans likely knew Parekh wouldn’t stay with the Flames this season, having him heading back this early feels like a disappointment.
First Round Expectations
Following the draft and free agency, Calgary’s preparations for training camp began, and with it, expectations started. It’s no secret that the Flames aren’t expected to be the most competitive team this year. Most fans and experts acknowledge that the Flames are rebuilding and the goal of the franchise is not necessarily about winning. This season for the Flames is about young players taking steps and finding out which players will be part of a better future. With that in mind, the Flames and their fans are excited and focused on their newest draft pick.
Only six players in Flames history have been drafted in a higher position than Parekh. With that comes big expectations. Fans and even some pundits were talking about the idea that Parekh could see regular-season action this year. All with caveating that the organization would be foolish to let him burn a year of his entry-level contract and see more than 10 games. This type of narrative had the city a buzz before the start of the Young Stars Classic.
A Bumpy Start
With the expectations surrounding Parekh, fans and the organization were eager to get a first-hand look. Heading into the Young Stars Classic no player had more eyes on them than Parekh. Playing against the prospects from Edmonton, Vancouver, and Winnipeg, Parekh took a while to find his groove. During the first two games, he was unable to create much offensively and his defensive game showed clear room for improvement. He had too many turnovers, including a giveaway in overtime of the first game that led to the winning goal by Winnipeg.
Parekh however, improved as the tournament went on. He showed flashes of his offensive skill, hitting a few posts and eventually scoring on a nice wrist shot in the final game. Overall he struggled a bit defensively and with consistency. Despite this, he showed flashes of his skill, skating and hockey IQ. Heading into training camp, expectations and excitement were still high around the defenceman.
Preseason Action
The Flames first-round draft pick played in two preseason games before being sent back to Saginaw. He managed no points in either contest and failed to have much impact on the games. Through his time in training camp, it became clear that he wasn’t ready for the NHL. Other Flames’ prospects showed they are closer to being ready for the professional game and Parekh needs time. His training camp is a great reminder of just how big of a jump it is from junior to the NHL. Coming off a dominant year in the OHL, Parekh was outmatched against bigger, better competition.
Taking It In Stride
Following the news that Parekh would be heading back to junior he faced the media. Fans should be happy with the way he handled himself. He gave an honest assessment of his game and where he needs to improve. He didn’t shy away from any questions and shared openly his thoughts. Parekh spoke like a player who knew he wasn’t ready for the NHL. He took his opportunity at training camp to gauge his game and learn from the pros. Fans should be happy with his approach and mindset for the year ahead.
What’s Next
Parekh told fans what he’ll be focusing on as he heads back to junior. At just 18 years old, he needs time to get bigger and stronger. He’ll be focused on another year of development in Saginaw. Parekh showed last year he can pile up the points in the OHL. This season it would be great to see him take strides in being a better defender. Seeing him play in all situations and stepping up as a leader should be goals for this first-round draft pick.
After this humbling camp fans may feel the urge to be discouraged. This shouldn’t be the case with Parekh. Even through his struggles he showed he still has tons of skill. The type of skill that will play at every level of hockey, including the NHL. The reality is it’s incredibly rare that any 18-year-old plays in the NHL, even a first-round pick. Last season just two* 18 year old’s played in the NHL, Zach Benson and Connor Bedard. The future in Calgary and the future of Zayne Parekh are both still very bright.
*Bradly Nadeau played one NHL game as an 18-year-old for Carolina last season.
Main Photo: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
