Calgary Flames trade two first‑round picks for defenseman Simon Nemec

The Calgary Flames acquired defenseman Simon Nemec and forward Maxim Tsyplakov from the New Jersey Devils in a deal that sent two protected first‑round selections (2027, 2028) and a second‑round pick to New Jersey. The trade sparked debate over the price, as Nemec is a 22‑year‑old who posted 11 goals and 26 points last season.

In the 2026 NHL Draft, the Boston Bruins selected two goaltenders, including Russian net‑minder Yuri Ivanov in the second round, while the Nashville Predators chose goaltender Dmitri Borichev at 70th overall. The Philadelphia Flyers added another goalie, Marek Sklenička, in the fourth round. The Flames’ director of amateur scouting, Tod Button, discussed the team’s draft picks, highlighting forward Carson Carels and defenseman Jack Hextall among others.

The Nashville Predators also announced their 2026 development camp roster, featuring first‑round picks Wyatt Cullen and Tommy Bleyl. Additional NHL rumors mentioned free‑agent activity and trade offers involving draft picks, but the core of the coverage centers on the Flames’ trade and the draft‑related moves across several clubs.