Monahan is sick and will not practice this morning, so the Flames will see how he is feeling later before making a decision whether or not to get him in the lineup tonight in the Flames' season opener vs. Vancouver. Monahan was set to centre the Flames top line with Curtis Glencross and Jiri Hudler on his wings.

Monahan missed the last seven games with a fractured foot, but gets back in the lineup for TJ Galiardi today vs. the Sabres. The rookie has nine goals and six assists in 24 games.

This is great news for the Flames, because the rookie has been one of their best offensive players this season. He has nine goals and 15 points in 24 games. His 15 points has him tied for second on the team in scoring and fifth amongst NHL rookies. He is likely still at least a week from returning to the Flames lineup.

Speculation is that Mikael Backlund will get more opportunities in wake of the Monahan injury. Given his history, look to your waiver wire first before jumping on Backlund.

Last night was Monahan's ninth game, so the Flames had to decide whether to keep him and burn the first year of his entry level contract, or send him back to juniors. It is no surprise that he stays with the team after the rookie's hot-start. Monahan has six goals and three assists (nine points) in nine games. He is averaging 15:47 TOI, but has seen his ice-time rise to 21 and 19 minutes in the last two outings.

Monahan recorded one assist and two shots on goal in 11:40 of ice time in his NHL debut.

We will get an update on Monahan's status for tonight's game.

“For such a young centreman, I think he’s adapting real well to NHL hockey,” head coach Bob Hartley said at the morning skate. “He still has things to learn which is perfectly normal for any kids that age. He doesn’t get rattled. He’s very poised . . . we have big plans for this young man." It sounds like Monahan has a good shot at making the Flames opening night roster.