Flames announce they will retire Jarome Iginla's number this season

A home game against the Minnesota Wild just became the hottest ticket in town.

The Calgary Flames confirmed speculation on Thursday, announcing that Jarome Iginla will have his No. 12 jersey retired before their game against the Wild on Saturday, March 2.

“It’s humbling, a huge honour, a thrill and to be honest, a little bit surreal,” said Iginla, who is the franchise leader in points (1,095), goals (525), and games played (1,219). “I am extremely grateful to the Flames ownership and organization for bestowing this tribute on me and my family.”

March 2nd is a #Flames game you don't want to miss. Get your tickets today ~ https://t.co/kQsRZuMYfn pic.twitter.com/CMIdM52bJ2

— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) January 17, 2019

“I’m looking forward to it but I don’t know what to expect or how I’ll handle my emotions. I’m obviously very excited but I think now that my kids are really into hockey and the NHL that it’s going to be so neat to share it with my family. To have them there, and friends, alumni and of course with the fans will really make the day special.”

The longtime Flames captain hasn’t played an NHL game since 2017 but didn’t officially announced his retirement last summer.

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He will always be remembered for leading an underdog Flames team to Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final in 2004, as well as winning two gold medals for Canada at the Olympics, playing a huge part of game-clinching wins at Salt Lake 2002 and Vancouver 2010. Iginla was a six-time All-Star, and won the Art Ross, Rocket Richard, and Pearson Awards in 2001-02. He won a second Rocket Richard Trophy in 2004.

“We are all so proud of Jarome, a gentleman and extraordinary player. On behalf of the Flames ownership and the organization, we congratulate Jarome on an amazing career,” said CSEC vice-chairman & CEO Ken King.

“For 16 years Jarome was the centrepiece of our Flames culture. He set the standard and established a legacy that will be cherished for years to come. He conducted himself with grace, humility and dignity matched with fierceness and passion in his play”.

“We are honoured to have his number 12 retired and proudly displayed in the Scotiabank Saddledome rafters to be celebrated with Flames fans for all-time.”

Iginla will become just the third player in Flames history to have his number retired, joining Lanny McDonald and Mike Vernon. Al MacInnis and Joe Nieuwendyk have also seen their jerseys honoured by the team, but #2 and #25 are still available to be worn by current players.