The Calgary Flames inked captain Mikael Backlund to a two-year, $6.5 million extension on Wednesday. His deal will run through 2028.
With his new contract in hand, Backlund could soon overtake Hall of Famer Jarome Iginla for the franchise record of 1,219 regular season games as a Flame.
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Apr 9, 2025; Anaheim, California, USA; Calgary Flames center Mikael Backlund (11) reacts after scoring a goal during the second period against the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Backlund has spent his entire 17-year career with the Flames. The 36-year-old Swede enters the 2025-26 season 1,066 career games played. If he stays healthy, he could potentially pass Iginla toward the end of the 2026-27 season.
Last season, Backlund recorded 32 points (15 goals, 17 assists) in 76 regular season games. He spoke to the Flames’ website about his new deal.
“We’re so excited as a family, we’re thrilled to stay here,” Backlund said. “It’s been a great ride, and we’re so proud to be Calgarians and I’m proud to be a Calgary Flame. So, we’re very thankful we got this deal done.”
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Backlund is currently tied with Hall of Famer Lanny McDonald for sixth place with 215 regular season goals. He could move into fifth should he pass fellow countryman Kent Nilsson (229) this season.
Currently, Backlund is two assists away from leaping past Gary Suter (564) for sixth place in career points as a Flame.
Though it’s clear that no one is touching Iginla’s franchise records of 525 career goals and 1,095 career points, Backlund has carved out a special place in Flames history.
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Apr 11, 2025; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames goaltender Dustin Wolf (32) celebrate win with center Mikael Backlund (11) after defeating the Minnesota Wild at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn ImagesSergei Belski-Imagn Images
He will continue to lead the up-and-coming Flames, who also extended Dustin Wolf, Matt Coronato, Connor Zary and Kevin Bahl this summer.
The Flames hope to qualify for the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs after missing the postseason for three consecutive years. Calgary possesses one of the youngest rosters in the league at an average age of 27.6.
There’s a sense that this group can grow together in the coming years and it’s up to Backlund to lead by example.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Sep 17, 2025, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.