Backlund shares his love for the city of Calgary after re-signing with Flames
Mikael Backlund won’t be departing the Calgary Flames organization anytime soon.
The Flames were able to get another extension out of the way before training camp, signing Backlund to a two-year, $6.5-million deal that will carry an average annual value of $3.25 million. The 36-year-old scored 15 goals and 32 points in 76 games last season.
“I’m so excited about the signings we’ve done this summer, signing the future of the Flames, and even more prospects coming up that are looking really good,” Backlund told Brendan Parker of Flames TV. “To have the core that we’ve had for the last few years, I love thoes guys, I believe in them. They bring so much great leadership. Super excited to be a part of this. I believe in this team and see a bright future here.”
Remaining in Calgary for an additional two seasons will allow Backlund to continue chasing down Jarome Iginla for the most games played in franchise history.
Backlund, who was selected by the Flames in the first round of the 2007 draft, has logged 1,066 games with the organization, which is the second most all-time. Iginla, meanwhile, suited up for 1,219 games in a Flames uniform.
“It means the world to us. We’re so thankful for the Calgary Flames organization, how much they’ve believed in me and wanted to keep me here over the years,” Backlund said. “We’ve created such a special bond [with] so many people here in the city, just the city in general and all the charities. People here in Calgary are so good. We’re so thankful to be a part of this community.”
Backlund, who is beloved by both the fan base and his teammates, is set to enter his third season as the Flames captain. Despite getting up there in age, he has continued to be a dependable middle-six forward.
The 2024-25 season marked the fourth straight season that Backlund has surpassed the double-digit goal total, while also eclipsing the 30-point mark. His attention to detail defensively has remained solid as well, proven by the fact that he received a Selke Trophy vote this past season.
Backlund’s extension will kick in for the 2026-27 season and run through the 2027-28 campaign, meaning that, barring a trade, he will suit up for the Flames at Scotia Place, which is set to open in the fall of 2027.
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