Flames recall Jakub Nakladal, send down Mason Raymond

The Flames made their first roster moves post-All Star break this morning, sending down Mason Raymond and recalling Jakub Nakladal from the Stockton Heat.

Raymond, placed on waived yesterday, has been the odd man out for most of this season due to his struggles to make a meaningful impact on the roster. His demotion only shaves off about $950k in cap relief from his bloated contract, and unfortunately doesn’t take away a year from that contract (though it could help with the upcoming trade deadline). Raymond was likely moved to make room for the returning Micheal Ferland, who may or may not be in the lineup tonight. All morning skate reports thus far have him sidelined.

Nakladal is presumably Dennis Wideman's replacement, though no official announcement on his suspension has been made. Wideman, as of this writing, is still on the active roster, but that could all change soon so the Flames do need a body just in case things don't go their way (which it likely won't). The former KHLer has been a defensive stalwart for the Heat and an offensive contributor, scoring 14 points in 35 games played with the club. He was on the Flames roster very briefly during the early stages of the season, but didn't get any game action. At this point in the season, it can't hurt.

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