Mikael Backlund signs 2-year extension with Calgary Flames

Mikael Backlund has, in reality, the heart of the Calgary leadership, consistency, and loyalty for him throughout his career. The franchise ultimately took a shot at him in 2007.

He has now grown into one of the strongest, most reliable two-way centers in the franchise. After having just signed a new contract, Backlund will be in Calgary for two more seasons. The balance between retooling is, thus, stabilized by keeping their captain, and working fans get to celebrate one of the all-time greats of this club.

Mikael Backlund agrees to a 2-year contract extension

The Flames confirmed that Captain Mikael Backlund has been signed to a two-year contract with an AAV value of $3.25 million.

This contract extension keeps him locked up until the 27-28 season, and the reduction in his pay from that of previous deals shows how committed he is to the franchise. At 35, he has openly stated his intent to retire in Calgary even as the organization is looking at a younger portfolio and a new competitive window.

Mikael Backlund’s career, leadership, and impact

Backlund, who ranks second in games-played in franchise history with 1,066 games to his credit, stands as a trusted figure for good plays at both ends of the ice.

In 2023-24, he scored 15 goals and dished out 17 assists, yet he remains highly regarded for being among the top-conditioned athletes in the league. In 2023, he was named the 21st captain in Calgary history and has embraced the responsibility of leading among young players and setting standards for the entire dressing room.His services outside the hockey rink had their implications as well. In 2022-23, Backlund was the recipient of the King Clancy Memorial Trophy for his humanitarian endeavors, the first Calgary player to win the award since Jarome Iginla.

His hard two-way play and commitment to the community have catapulted him into the true face of the franchise during its transition.Also Read: Brad Marchand surprised by Florida Panthers contract extension ahead of free agencyBy re-signing Mikael Backlund, the Calgary Flames assure themselves of more than just a player- they work toward preserving leadership, culture, and continuity. As Backlund gets close to setting the franchise record for consecutive games played, he continues to remain a core figure for the Flames both on and off the ice.