CALGARY — Simon Nemec faces a bigger test on the Calgary Flames’ blue line after Kevin Bahl’s season-ending Achilles injury broke up the team’s top defensive pairing.

The Flames have used veteran Joel Hanley alongside Nemec in their past two games, Sportsnet’s Eric Francis reports. Coach Ryan Huska has also indicated that further changes to the pairings could follow.

For Nemec, 22, the adjustment means continuing his development without a partner he credits with helping his game grow.

“I feel like we were probably the perfect pair, if you see the size, the hands, and the style of hockey,” Nemec told Sportsnet.

Calgary acquired the former second-overall pick from New Jersey during the summer for two first-round picks and a second-round pick, then signed him to a five-year, $36-million contract.

Through 18 games, Nemec has seven assists and no goals while averaging just over 21 minutes a night. He has played on both the power play and penalty kill, taking on a larger role than he had with the Devils.

Nemec said his progress is not solely reflected in his scoring totals. He is working to become more physical and more dependable defensively rather than pursuing offence at the expense of other responsibilities.

“For sure I want to have points — I was always an offensive defenceman, but I feel like now I can be more two-way,” he said. “I would say I'm playing more winning hockey now than I was.”

Bahl’s absence is also creating more opportunity for Zayne Parekh. According to Sportsnet, Parekh recorded a goal and two assists over the past two games, with each outing bringing a new season high in ice time.

Huska has pointed to tougher defensive assignments ahead for Parekh, including eventual matchups against opponents’ top players. For now, the Flames are relying on Hanley’s experience while their younger defencemen take on greater responsibility.

Sources