Since the Calgary Flames have not had a captain for the last two seasons, they seem to have hit the nail on the head by entrusting the leadership to Mikael Backlund, who has already dealt with several internal crises.
Things are slowly but surely getting back on track for the organization in Alberta. Some gray areas that emerged last season have disappeared and new leaders have emerged.
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Such is the case with Backlund, the most experienced player in the group, who also reached the 500-point mark on Monday night. The Swede had to be convinced to stay with the Flames over the offseason, but now he’s firmly in the saddle.
“There is a lot of noise surrounding the Calgary Flames and he keeps us focused on scoring, which is the most important thing. He did a good job,” defenseman Christopher Tanev told Sportsnet on Tuesday.
“He really has a calming attitude. He can also galvanize the troops and when we need a kick in the butt he is there to make sure everything is okay,” the deputy captain added.
The successor to Mark Giordano, who released the “C” when he left for Seattle in 2021, even impressed new head coach Ryan Huska, who has known him since 2008.
“He’s wanted it for several years and I think it’s really his time. He takes a lot of pride in changing certain things in the locker room,” he said.
A first file
Backlund himself would never have considered starting a 15th season in the National League, always with the Flames. The 2007 first-round pick led by example for a long time, even if some years were more difficult.
“There were times when I told myself I wouldn’t be here long. I had a good rookie season and then it took me a while to establish myself. It is very special to still be here and to be captain,” explained the 34-year-old athlete.
Less than two weeks ago, it was the case of full-back Nikita Zadorov that caused a stir in Calgary after the Russian player’s agent asked on social networks to exchange his client.
It was necessary for Backlund to quickly nip these unhealthy rumors in the bud and focus the locker room’s attention on the common goal of winning.
“I spoke to “Z” personally and Huska and I talked about how we should talk about it. I suggested saying something to the group and then they would take over. He asked me if it would be enough and I said yes,” said the captain.
Every day will be different, but right now no one regrets Backlund’s choice.