Flames announce that they will retire Miikka Kiprusoff's #34

The Calgary Flames have announced that they'll retire Miikka Kiprusoff's #34 this upcoming season.

"Today we are proud to build on the Flames legacy by paying tribute to one of the all-time greats in Flames history. On behalf of the Flames ownership and the organization, we congratulate Miikka on an amazing career and this well-earned and rare achievement," said Flames General Manager Craig Conroy in a prepared statement. "We are thrilled to have his number 34 deservingly displayed at the Scotiabank Saddledome so Flames fans can celebrate his contributions for years to come. And for me, personally, it was a privilege to have been his teammate. Under that mask was a fierce competitor who gave us the confidence and an opportunity to win every night. Thank you and congratulations Kipper."

"I am honoured and humbled by this recognition of my career in Calgary," Kiprusoff said in the same statement released by Conroy. "To have my name and number hanging next to those great Flames players and especially my friend and legendary goalie Mike Vernon, is truly a highlight of my career."

Kiprusoff, now 46 years old, is arguably the greatest goaltender in Flames history. He was a fan favorite not just in Calgary, but for fans across the entire NHL. Personally, I absolutely LOVED Kipper in his prime. He was a dynamic goaltender with an unflappable personality. Add in the fact that he was a workhorse and you just couldn't help but pull for the guy. This is a well deserved honor, for sure.

"I loved my time in Calgary," said Kiprusoff. "The fans are amazing and it's a wonderful place to live and play. Hockey really means something here and I was proud to wear the Flaming C and call Calgary my home for 9 years. I would like to thank the Flames ownership, the organization, and the fans for my time in Calgary and for this tremendous honour."

Classy move by Conroy and the entire Flames organization, I can't wait to see how the evening plays out and to see just how many of Kipper's teammates make it out for the evening.

And with that... I give you some Kipper highlights: