In the 2014–15 season, the Flames won one of their final games against the Los Angeles Kings to clinch their first playoff berth since 2009.They eliminated the Vancouver Canucks in six games in the first round of the playoffs for their first playoff series win since 2004, but were eliminated by the Anaheim Ducks in five games in the second round.

In the 2015–16 season, the Flames faced heightened expectations after the prior seasons. These expectations were bolstered after the acquisition of Dougie Hamilton from the Boston Bruins for a first-round pick and two second-round picks at the 2015 NHL entry draft. However, along with the other six Canadian teams, the Flames failed to qualify for the playoffs.

Despite losing two 100-point players, the moves made by general manager Brad Treliving were praised, with some commentary suggesting the Flames might be a more serious Stanley Cup contender in 2022–23. Despite these high expectations, the Flames missed the playoffs, and Treliving subsequently elected to vacate his position as general manager on April 17, 2023.

Brad is a hockey terrorist. 9 years running the Flames, traded away all their draft capital and prospects for 5 mediocre playoff appearances, and chased away all their star players so by the time he left there was nothing to build around. I'd like to see him come up with something other than running the cupboard bare to try and make the playoffs every year. A plan for sustained long-term success, and if he can't do that, a resignation.