It’s a consensus opinion among fans that the Calgary Flames did amazing work in the 2024 NHL Draft. The team seemed to do its homework, making skillful selections at every pick resulting in the Flames adding many intriguing names into their prospect pool.
Among those names is forward Jacob Battaglia, who was drafted in the second round, 62nd overall. The 19-year-old already put up strong numbers in his draft year with the Kingston Frontenacs of the OHL, but this season, Battaglia has hit a new gear and has been dominating offensively. It really seems like the Flames have a special player here who could end up being a steal for the organization.
Battaglia’s incredible season
In 65 games this season, Battaglia has recorded 40 goals and 88 points and currently lies within the top 15 OHL point scorers. As he continues to dominate, the noise surrounding him being a steal is only going to get louder.
JACOB BATTAGLIA IS A 40 GOAL SCORER
— Kingston Frontenacs (@KingstonFronts) March 15, 2025
vibe check #Flames fans???🤔🔥@NHLFlames | @OHLHockey https://t.co/832wHAkfSe pic.twitter.com/Gke4jJLsxn
At 19, Battaglia recording these types of numbers is impressive, considering how there’s still quite the development path in store for him. With his size also being 6’1 and 200lbs, he already has a solid frame to complement his immense skill set. He’s made considerable progress ever since his rookie season in the OHL, as he’s gone from 27 to 65 to 88 points in a season with an average of 66 games played.
Battaglia will yet again be in the OHL next season until he’s eligible to move up to higher levels of hockey. But in the meantime looking at his growth, it’s not necessarily a crazy idea to think that Battaglia can hit the 100-point mark at some point, such as next season.
Flames fans should be excited as Battaglia develops
Looking at Battaglia’s skill set, which consists of impressive offensive abilities, Flames fans should have this prospect fully on their radar as he makes his way into professional hockey.
The Flames have developed a strong draft class from the OHL, consisting of Henry Mews, Luke Misa, Zayne Parekh and Battaglia. These are all players who have the potential for high ceilings in pro hockey, and it’s remarkable how Calgary was able to snag all these players in one draft.
With Battaglia specifically, I’m quite high on this kid. Not only could he be a steal for the Flames, but his playing style could translate quite well into pro hockey. Unfortunately, Battaglia won’t be able to play AHL games until the 2026-2027 season. He also isn’t signed to an entry-level contract yet, but I’m sure that’s going to get done given his impressive showing.
I’m looking forward to Battaglia navigating through his development journey, and his being a steal is not a far-fetched idea at all.
