Flames GM Craig Conroy Clarifies Jonathan Huberdeau’s Recovery Status

Conroy Corrects ‘Poor Choice of Words’ Regarding Huberdeau

The clarification comes after Conroy told QR770 radio host Jock Wilson that Huberdeau had experienced a “little bit of a setback” with his skating roughly two weeks prior. In a subsequent interview with Sportsnet’s Eric Francis, Conroy admitted those comments were a “poor choice of words.”

“It’s not that there was a setback,” Conroy told Sportsnet. “It was more the hope in me that he was going to be ready for camp.” Conroy explained that he meant Huberdeau likely wouldn’t be ready for the first day of training camp, rather than suggesting a regression in his physical recovery.

Recovery Timeline and Surgical Details

Huberdeau, 33, underwent hip resurfacing surgery in March after playing 50 games during the 2025-26 season, where he recorded 10 goals and 25 points. The winger had been playing through constant daily pain before the procedure, a condition Conroy says is no longer an issue.

The surgery was performed in New York City by Dr. Edwin P. Su. Dr. Su has performed similar operations on Patrick Kane and John Klingberg, both of whom subsequently resumed their NHL careers. Conroy emphasized that the team is prioritizing a slow return to ensure Huberdeau is 100 percent ready for physical contact and game play, stating it is “a matter of when, not if” the winger returns to the lineup.

Roster Impact and Financial Stakes

Huberdeau remains the highest-paid player on the Flames, earning an average of $10.5 million per season with five years remaining on his contract extension. His availability for the start of the season is in doubt.

To address the situation, the Flames have invited winger Alex Nylander to their 2026 training camp on a professional tryout. The Flames will open their 2026-27 regular season slate of games against the Seattle Kraken at the Saddledome on Oct. 1.