Flames’ Zayne Parekh Exits Game Against Blackhawks Due to Upper-Body Injury
Calgary Flames defenseman Zayne Parekh exited Friday’s matchup against the Chicago Blackhawks due to an upper-body injury. The incident occurred in the second period when Parekh, 19, suffered a heavy hit from Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno.
Game Overview
The injury forced the Flames to rule out their rookie defender for the remainder of the game. Before exiting, Parekh had logged 6:25 of ice time across seven shifts. The match took place at the Saddledome and was marked by aggressive physicality, including three fights within the first two periods.
Score and Key Events
- The Blackhawks were ahead 1-0, thanks to a power-play goal by Tyler Bertuzzi.
- Frank Nazar of the Blackhawks also left the game due to an injury after colliding with Joel Farabee.
Zayne Parekh’s Background
Zayne Parekh was selected 9th overall by the Flames in the 2024 NHL Draft. He is a right-handed defenseman, standing at 6’0″. Before joining the Flames, Parekh had a standout season with the OHL’s Saginaw Spirit, scoring 33 goals and tallying 107 points in 61 games.
NHL Debut and Current Season Performance
Parekh made his NHL debut in the season finale against the Los Angeles Kings, marking his first NHL goal. This season, he has participated in 11 games with the Flames, recording one assist while primarily occupying bottom-pairing minutes.
Future Prospects
The Markham, Ontario native is among the youngest players in the league and has been part of a developmental plan with the Flames. He remains eligible for Team Canada at the upcoming IIHF World Junior Championship, contingent on his health and selection by Hockey Canada.
