Huge promotion for Mikael Backlund right after today's announcement!

Earlier today, the Calgary Flames and forward Mikael Backlund agreed a two year, $9 million contract extension with an average annual value of $4.5M and now the team has added more good news to the mix. 

As they announced the contract extension, the Flames also confirmed that Backlund is the new team captain.

This is a great ending to what appeared to be troublesome news last week when the Flames shared pictures and fans noticed that Backlund, who has been an assistant captain for the Flames for awhile now, had removed the A from his jersey. 

That's only to make room for the C.

Backlund not only got what he was seeking in a new deal with the Flames, a competing salary and a no move that kicks in immediately for the full three seasons (no trade exception kicks in Jan 1, 2026 - player may eliminate 15 teams), he also becomes the leader that can guide the Flames back into the postseason and a contending position. 

Backlund, who was selected 24th overall by Calgary in 2007, posted 19 goals and 56 points in 82 games last season. He has 185 goals and 492 points in 908 career games with the team.

He becomes the 21st captain in franchise history. 

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