Klimchuk returned to Stockton, Brouwer activated, Smith traveling

This morning’s optional skate for the Calgary Flames was surprisingly newsworthy, as a trio of inter-related news items dropped simultaneously. The most news-worthy morsel is likely that forward Morgan Klimchuk has been re-assigned to the American Hockey League’s Stockton Heat, which opens up a spot for Troy Brouwer as he returns from his facial injuries. Goaltender Mike Smith is also reportedly progressing and will be traveling with the team on their two-game road trip to Las Vegas and Phoenix.

Klimchuk made his NHL debut last night against Boston. He played just over seven minutes on the fourth line alongside Matt Stajan and Curtis Lazar. The rookie didn’t stand out one way or the other –…