Kuznetsov decision still to be made

Calgary Flames

SAINT JOHN - It's still to be determined if defenseman Yan Kuznetsov will join the Saint John Sea Dogs at some point this season.

In an intermission interview with John Moore during Saturday's radio broadcast, Ray Edwards, the director of player development for the Calgary Flames, said the team continues to evaluate Kuznetsov daily.

"There's a point where we will have to make a decision in terms of what is best for his development," Edwards said. "Our depth situation in Calgary - it is what it is. We don't have a ton in the American league and we do have a couple injuries."

.@NHLFlames still considering sending top prospect Yan Kuznetsov to @SJSeaDogs. Here's #Flames Director of Player Dev/ Ray Edwards. #NHL #QMJHL pic.twitter.com/T5uaFHJ2vE

— John Moore (@rinkrant) November 14, 2021

Kuznetsov has appeared in 10 games with the AHL's Stockton Heat this season. He's pointless with five shots and a +1 rating.

Kuznetsov, Saint John's first-round pick in this year's CHL Import Draft, spent last season with the NCAA's University of Connecticut before joining the Heat. He played for Russia at last year's World Junior Hockey Championship and will likely do so again this year.

Fellow Flames prospects Ryan Francis and Jeremie Poirier are currently on the Sea Dogs roster. Francis started the season with Kuznetsov in Stockton.

You'd have to think a decision on Kuznetsov will be made - at the latest - prior to January's trade deadline. Saint John currently has an open import spot and that will no doubt be filled one way or another.