Calgary Flames Extend Captain Mark Giordano Contract

Announced earlier, the Calgary Flames have extended Captain Mark Giordano. Costing a mere $6.75 million AAV, Giordano is set to be a Flame for the next 6 years.

At the beginning of the year, there were rumors swirling that Giordano’s ask was around 9 million. The now 31-year-old is now a fixture on the Flames formidable D-core.
With the addition of Hamilton, the Flames D-core on paper seems like one of the most solid in the league. Pairings I’d project would be: Giordano, Brodie – Hamilton, Russell – Wideman, Engelland. If nothing changes by season’s start.

Given that Mark is now 31, he will turn 32 before the season begins. Meaning this deal takes effect when Mark turns 33-years old. If all goes well, Giordano will be a Flame until he is 39-years-old. I see this as an investment on Treliving’s behalf. This stands to benefit everyone on the ice, as Giordano’s leadership can help younger players in our system.

Names like: Nakladl, Morrison, Hickey, Kanzig – these are all people who would stand to benefit playing with someone like Giordano.

I like this deal at first glace, as well as upon further inspection. Only questions I have seen are about Mark Giordano’s health.

Giordano has not played a full NHL season since he was 27 due to injuries. Does this merit calling Giordano injury prone?

I think the hard working attitude of Mark Giordano is bound to lead to injury in certain aspects. I do not think this should be cause for concern. Mark has shown resiliency throughout his career, this being no different. I expect Giordano to bring his game regardless. This investment is worth it, in every sense.

The complexion of this Flames team is ever-changing. Now with Mark Giordano checked off the list, there are fewer names we have to worry about next summer.

Only time will tell if this is a good deal for the Flames.

Even though Giordano has not played a full NHL season since he was 27, I don’t see this as an issue. None of his injuries are recurring, or nagging.

His ability as a captain goes far beyond his on-ice presence. Giordano’s work in the community, as well as demeanor in the locker room are things to marvel at.

Locking up Giordano long-term shores up our top-6 to the point now that we have Brodie, Hamilton, Giordano all locked up long-term. This is a very good thing moving forward as it gives prospects in our system something solid to aspire to be a part of.

Next: Calgary Flames Cap Crunch: Signing Giordano

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