Calgary Flames Extend Or Sell: Mikael Backlund

While the Calgary Flames have introduced their fans to a lot of new faces in recent years, there’s one name that’s been a constant since the days of Craig Conroy and Jarome Iginla, and that’s Swedish centre Mikael Backlund, who just completed his 14th season with the Flames. It was also arguably the best year of the 34-year old’s career, as he racked up 19 goals and 37 assists for the Flames, tallying 56 points while playing a crucial leadership role for a team that struggled mightily all year long, and now, the Flames have a big decision to make regarding his future.

After all this time in Calgary with just one Western Conference Finals appearance to show for it, Backlund has made no secret that he’s looking to compete for a Stanley Cup, but reportedly, there’s one major thing that could keep him in Calgary, and that’s the coveted ‘C’. While it would be weird for any Flames fans for the team to consider selling on the veteran who has ingratiated himself with the organization and city over the past 14 years, it’s a conversation the team need to have going forward.

At 34-years of age, it’s unlikely that he will get the return of a Tyler Toffoli or Noah Hanifin, but Backlund has been a key piece of this team for a number of years, and if any teams out there are looking for centre and leadership depth, targeting someone with 906 games of experience could be a good play. Like any of the Flames upcoming free agents, if they can get a haul in return of future assets or younger, NHL-ready talent, but given what he’s meant to the Flames and should continue to mean, the best option here should be an extension of 3-4 years.

Verdict: The Calgary Flames need to get younger, sure, but with Backlund, they have a career Flame that has earned the captaincy role, and if No. 11 wants to return to Calgary on a short term deal of 2-4 years, they should jump at the opportunity and name him the next captain of the Calgary Flames.