The Calgary Flames announced today that defenceman Zayne Parekh has been assigned to the the OHL’s Saginaw Spirit.
Parekh was drafted by the Flames ninth overall in 2024 and is already regarded as a franchise cornerstone. As an 18-year-old, Parekh competed in Flames development camp after the draft, the Penticton Young Stars Classic earlier this month, and in one preseason game with the Flames.
It was always known that the most likely spot for Parekh this season was back in the OHL, but prior to training camp, many wondered if he could play his way onto the NHL roster for a few games at the beginning of the season. In his first NHL camp, it was apparent that Parekh was not fully ready for the NHL, which is why the Flames have sent him back halfway through camp.
This is not a failure by any means. Parekh showed why he draws comparisons to generational talent Erik Karlsson on numerous occasions. His offensive skillset is likely at the NHL level already, that much is clear. However, there are still deficiencies in his game on the defensive side, which he will no doubt work on this coming season.
What we saw from Parekh during this training camp was incredibly impressive, and after another season in junior, he will come into next year’s camp with his eye on a full-time NHL roster spot.
Until then, he’ll rejoin the Spirit, who will look to defend their Memorial Cup Championship.
All the best in Saginaw this season, Zayne.
