Flames Acquire Simon Nemec in Blockbuster Deal With Devils

The Calgary Flames have made a major addition to their blue line, acquiring former second-overall pick Simon Nemec from the New Jersey Devils in a significant offseason trade.

According to Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman, Calgary sent forward Yegor Tsyplakov, the New York Rangers’ 2026 second-round pick, Vegas’ 2027 first-round pick, Colorado’s 2028 first-round pick (both top-10 protected), and prospect Etienne Morin to New Jersey in exchange for Nemec.

Nemec & Tsyplakov for 2nd (NYR) this year, Vegas 1st 2027, COL 1st 2028 (both top 10 protected) & Etienne Morin https://t.co/iJclSTQhWH

— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) June 23, 2026

The move signals Calgary’s commitment to adding young, high-end talent as the organization continues building toward long-term contention. Nemec, 22, was selected second overall in the 2022 NHL Draft and has long been viewed as one of hockey’s premier defensive prospects.

Despite possessing tremendous upside, Nemec found himself battling for opportunities on a deep Devils blue line. With established defenders ahead of him, speculation had grown that New Jersey could eventually use the talented right-shot defenseman as a trade asset.

For the Flames, the acquisition represents a gamble worth taking. Nemec brings excellent skating ability, offensive instincts, and the potential to develop into a top-pairing defenseman. He immediately becomes one of the most important young pieces in Calgary’s organization.

From New Jersey’s perspective, the deal provides valuable future assets, including two first-round selections and a promising prospect in Morin, while adding forward depth with Tsyplakov.

If Nemec reaches his ceiling, this trade could become one of the defining moves of Calgary’s rebuild.

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