NHL: Calgary Flames at Los Angeles Kings - Source: ImagnJonathan Huberdeau set for bounce back season with Calgary Flames (Picture Credits: IMAGN)

Jonathan Huberdeau is expected to have a better campaign with the Calgary Flames after a tough 2023-24. He scored only 52 points in 81 games last year, a big drop from his 115-point season with the Florida Panthers in 2021-22.

Huberdeau is currently on an eight-year $84 million deal with Flames and this will be his 13th NHL season. NHL analyst Salim Valji believes Huberdeau will benefit from lower expectations this season.

“Jonathan Huberdeau wants to be a positive light.” Salim Valji said. “And I think he’s actually going to have a nice rebound of a season because there are not many expectations, the organization is prioritizing youth development.”

Without the pressure to match his Florida numbers, he can focus on improving his overall game and leadership.

“I think that he really will play well because he’s not going to put that expectation on himself. And he’ll be free… he’ll have a really decent season. I think he’ll he’ll top 70 points, and he’ll look a lot closer to the Jonathan Huberdeau of old,” Valji added.

With the Flames focusing on youth development, Huberdeau will concentrate on being a positive influence and helping the team grow.

Jonathan Huberdeau focuses on speed, fun, and leadership for Flames’ comeback

Flames' Jonathan Huberdeau spends summer focused on speed | Calgary Herald

Jonathan Huberdeau is looking to regain his confidence after a new summer workout. Entering the second season of his eight-year, $84 million contract, Huberdeau will look to improve on his slower start with the Flames.

Huberdeau aims to make hockey fun again for himself and the team. He wants to lead and believes the Flames have potential to surprise opponents.

“The confidence is back. I just have to relay that to here with the guys, and I think this year I want to bring fun to my game. That’s what we need to be. I think we’ve just got to make it fun as a team. You never know. We can cause some surprises,” Huberdeau said via (NHL.com).

Calgary missed the playoffs last season, finishing fifth in the Pacific Division. They traded key players like Elias Lindholm and Jacob Markstrom. The team is moving towards a younger roster. He vows to enjoy the process and work together as a team.