Calgary Flames captain Mikael Backlund matured into one of the franchise's most important faces

The official Calgary Flames mugshots might suggest otherwise, but Mikael Backlund hasn't changed all that much over the past 17 years since he was drafted 24th overall in 2007.

If anything, his best qualities both as a person and a player are more prominent to the public. 

Tonight, the 35-year-old Flames captain will skate into an elite category as he plays his 1,000th NHL game with the only franchise he's ever played for.

That many games is a milestone few NHLers reach — barely 400 of them in the league's history. Less than 50 of those are players who suited up for just a single franchise. And that makes Backlund's accomplishment even more special. 

Backlund’s unwavering commitment to the Calgary Flames franchise is a rarity in modern sports. Nearly two decades after he was drafted, the Swedish centre has become an integral piece of the Flames' foundation, embodying consistency and resilience. There have been plenty of challenges and obstacles in his way — any one of them that could have derailed his career or taken him away from Calgary.

The journey began with Backlund as a hopeful first-round pick from Vasteras, Sweden. His path to becoming a staple in the NHL wasn’t always smooth. In his early seasons, Backlund faced his share of ups and downs, including some tough love in the form of harsh feedback from coaches and management. His skill and potential were evident, but it took years of effort to find his niche as a Selke worthy centre who took as much pride silencing opponents as hitting the scoresheet himself. 

Backlund met each challenge determined to prove himself as a full-time NHL player. It helped shape Backlund into the tenacious, dependable player he is today. His steady approach has earned him immense respect from teammates, coaches, and fans alike. Blending his natural ability with an unwavering work ethic, Backlund was again the team's fittest Flames in training camp despite players nearly half his age looking to make their mark. 

He has set a powerful example for younger players who look to him as a role model. 

That's on and off the ice. 

Backlund’s connection with the city of Calgary has become just as deep as any that has existed, from Lanny McDonald to Jarome Iginla. 

Known for his charitable contributions, Backlund has become an advocate and ambassador for causes that resonate with the Calgary community, earning him the 2023 King Clancy Memorial Trophy for his leadership and humanitarian impact.

His loyalty was tested after that season when he entered free agency, a time when many seek new challenges or a better chance at winning. But Backlund chose Calgary in a decision made not just for the franchise he’s been loyal to, but for the city and fans that have supported him throughout his career. 

The Flames chose him, too, offering him the captaincy along with a new contract last season. The new commitment was as a reflection of his deep connection to the community that has embraced him just as warmly as he has embraced it.

Backlund’s 1,000th game with the Calgary Flames only adds to the legacy of his remarkable impact.