Mikael Backlund has been a member of the Flames since they drafted him in the first round of the 2007 National Hockey League draft, and his new contract would keep him in Calgary until 2028. Backlund is entering his 18th season with the Flames and third as the captain, and it now looks like he will be a Flame for life. If he is able to stay healthy he will be the Flames all-time games played record holder passing Jarome Iginla by the end of the contract.
The loyalty shown by both Backlund and the Flames organization is incredibly rare in this age of the NHL, and many wondered if he would request a trade to a contending organization for his chance to win a Stanley Cup.
This extension could be considered an endorsement of the direction the Flames are heading and the belief that they will contend and possibly win the Holy Grail of Hockey within the next three seasons.
Mikael Backlund has been a fixture for the Calgary Flames
In his career he has played 1,066 games, 153 away from the record, 215 goals and 563 points, good for 7th all-time on the Flames points list. His off-ice contribution is lesser known but just as impactful in the Calgary community, including his work with the ALS Society of Alberta, and all his contributions to the Calgary Flames Foundation, Kids Cancer Care, Parachutes for Pets, and Special Olympics Calgary.
Mikael Backlund is the perfect example of what it means to be a Calgarian, and a Calgary Flame, and an inspiration to many who call this city home. He is the perfect captain, with his two-way play style and ability to elevate his linemate along side Blake Coleman on The Fixer Line, to his leadership in the room with the young players entering the league.
Most of the Flames top prospects who enter their first season are typically paired with Backlund, including Matthew Coronato, Connor Zary and Matthew Tkachuk. Even when a player is struggling to produce they're placed with him to get their mojo back. The importance of having a leader like that can't be overstated.
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