Story Summary
Jonathan Huberdeau, 33, confirmed he is pain free after hip resurfacing surgery but will not start training camp with the Calgary Flames next week as he continues a staged return to play. Huberdeau is skating on his own and working out off the ice while the club’s medical staff and management monitor progress; Flames general manager Craig Conroy and coach Ryan Huska both stressed the need to ensure Huberdeau is 100 per cent before being integrated into full practices and game action. Huberdeau had 25 points (10 goals, 15 assists) in 50 games last season and did not play after Feb. 4. The forward, entering his fifth season with Calgary and 15th in the NHL, remains an important veteran presence as the Flames work to bring along younger players.
Key Facts
- Jonathan Huberdeau said he is ” feeling pretty good” and is pain free following hip resurfacing surgery in February.
- Huberdeau, 33, will not start training camp with the Calgary Flames next week.
- The forward is skating on his own and working out off the ice but needs more time before joining team practices.
- Huberdeau said the surgery involved cutting a lot of muscles and that the goal is to come back and be “100 percent.”
- Flames general manager Craig Conroy cited Chicago Blackhawks forward Patrick Kane as an example, saying he expected a 7-9 month recovery window for Huberdeau.
- Conroy noted the club hoped for an earlier return but will wait until Huberdeau feels ready and medical staff clear him, emphasising long-term wellbeing.
- Calgary coach Ryan Huska said Huberdeau ” looks great” on the ice, is doing everything asked of him and more in the gym, and that the team has a plan to integrate him when appropriate.
- Huberdeau recorded 25 points (10 goals, 15 assists) in 50 games last season and did not play after Feb. 4.
- Huberdeau is entering his fifth season with the Flames and his 15th season in the NHL.
- Captain Mikael Backlund said he empathises with missing the start of a season and expects the team to give Huberdeau time when he returns.
- Young forward Matt Coronato praised Huberdeau’s leadership, saying he helps younger players feel part of the team.
- Conroy said the club will consult with medical staff and Huberdeau to determine the right timetable for a return and that the player will skate on his own before being integrated.
IHM Discussion
This is a measured update rather than a firm timetable for return. Huberdeau’s description of being pain free is encouraging, but both the player and the Flames are prioritising readiness over schedule. Conroy’s reference to Patrick Kane frames expectations in months rather than weeks, while Calgary continues to take a cautious approach to Huberdeau’s return. The immediate question is when he can progress from individual skating into team practices and eventually game action.
Why It Matters
Huberdeau’s delayed start affects Calgary’s camp roster as the Flames continue developing younger players. His experience and leadership remain valuable to that group, with Coronato describing the way Huberdeau helps younger teammates feel part of the team. Calgary will determine his return in consultation with its medical staff and Huberdeau, rather than setting a fixed date.
Mini Q&A
Is Jonathan Huberdeau expected to start training camp with the Flames?
No. Huberdeau said he will not start training camp with the Flames next week while he continues his recovery from hip resurfacing surgery.
How is Huberdeau progressing in his recovery?
He said he is pain free, is skating on his own and is working out off the ice, but still needs more time before joining team practices to ensure everything is reactivated properly.
What timeline did the Flames’ general manager give for recovery?
Craig Conroy cited a 7-9 month expected recovery window and referenced Patrick Kane’s roughly six-month return from hip resurfacing as an illustrative example, while stressing the club will wait until Huberdeau is “100 percent.”
How did Huberdeau perform last season?
Huberdeau had 25 points (10 goals, 15 assists) in 50 games last season and did not play after Feb. 4.
What role does Huberdeau play off the ice?
Teammates and younger players value Huberdeau’s leadership and presence. Matt Coronato said Huberdeau helps younger players feel part of the team, including away from the rink.
Coach Mark Comment
Calgary’s approach is sensible: individual skating is one stage, but team practices and game action demand a different level of comfort and readiness. The key will be building Huberdeau’s workload progressively and assessing how he responds as he is integrated with the group.
IHM Final View
Huberdeau being pain free is a positive marker, but the Flames are right not to rush his return. He will continue skating on his own before being integrated with the team, with the final timetable dependent on his readiness and consultation with Calgary’s medical staff. When he returns, his experience and leadership will remain valuable to a younger group.