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CALGARY — Hunter Brzustewicz sees a clear path to patrolling the blue line for the Calgary Flames in the not-too-distant future.

The 19-year-old defenseman, acquired by the Flames in the trade that sent center Elias Lindholm to the Vancouver Canucks on Jan. 31, has set his sights on leapfrogging his way to the pro ranks in Calgary after a standout season with Kitchener of the Ontario Hockey League.

“During the Flames development camp in July, Brzustewicz expressed hope to join the team. He said, “I’m approaching this with the mindset of becoming a team member. Regardless, I’ll be playing professional hockey next year. I’ll give it my all.”

Brzustewicz may have been taken aback by the midseason trade, but he stated that it facilitated a clearer path to the NHL and he embraced the shift.

“Indeed, I am and I’m extremely excited about it,” stated Brzustewicz, who is set to turn 20 on Nov. 29.

While I was lounging in bed watching Netflix, the news of Lindholm’s trade came in. I was already aware that he was heading to Vancouver, but I had no idea that I would play a role in it. In the midst of a Fortnite game, my agent rang me up and cautioned me to be on my toes. I couldn’t help but ask if I was involved, to which he responded that he wasn’t sure yet. Shortly after, I received a text from Canucks’ general manager, Patrik Allvin, requesting a phone call.

His performance in the 2023-24 season elevated his status to a coveted prospect, leading to him being targeted by the Flames.

Brzustewicz, who was initially picked by Vancouver in the third round (No. 75) of the 2023 NHL Draft, ended up second among defensemen in terms of scoring in the OHL, with 92 points (13 goals, 79 assists) from 67 games for Kitchener. This was just behind Zayne Parekh, another Flames prospect, who scored 96 points (33 goals, 63 assists) for Saginaw.

“Observing Brzustewicz, the small plays he makes, his actions with the puck and his perception of the ice, these are premium, minute plays that might go unnoticed,” said Craig Conroy, the general manager of Calgary. “His offensive vision of the ice is exceptional. We were thrilled to acquire him. Both he and Zayne, who played in the OHL this year, scored 90 points each. That’s quite an achievement.”

As a result, Brzustewicz will depart from the OHL ranks.

“Frankly, I can’t fathom why he’d return to junior,” said Ray Edwards, the director of player development in Calgary. “Clearly, it’s a massive leap, but it’s imperative that we find a solution to facilitate this transition. We need to support, coach, and develop him to ensure he’s prepared for this opportunity.”

“He’s joining us afresh and we’re getting to know him. We’re fostering a relationship and an understanding of our methods and how they suit him. I believe he’s in a favorable position, having been with us for a while… he was here towards the end of the season… so now, he’s stepping into this year with a clear understanding of our ethos.”

Brzustewicz is set to be in Calgary this fall. The only question is whether he will be playing with the Flames or their American Hockey League affiliate, both of whom play at the Scotiabank Saddledome.

“Conroy said, “I would see him being with us here…” He added, “Where ‘here’ might be is a question, but I’m referring to Calgary.”