2026/27 Calgary Flames Player Preview: Mikael Backlund

For years, Mikael Backlund has been a steadying presence in the middle of the Flames lineup, and with the departues of Gaudreau, Tkachuk, Lindholm, Tanev, Hanifin, Kadri, Weegar and Andersson in the past few years, his role as a leader has become even more important.

Over the past five years, Backlund has missed a total of just six games, and while the offense has dropped a little over the last two years, it's no surprise given that the Flames ranked dead last in the NHL with just 2.54 goals per game.

Despite this, he was still more than solid in 2025/26, posting 17 goals and 43 points across 82 games played, as he was just two points behind the Flames leading scorer in Matt Coronato as he once again excelled with his two-way game. While the Flames future is looking bright, they need players in the lineup to help that transition, and again last season, Backlund showed that he is the perfect player to fill that role, and as the captain and soon to be record holder for most games played in franchise history, he's taken immense pride in that role.

What Will Mikael Backlund's Role be in 2026/27?

Heading into the new season, there's plenty of question marks about this Flames lineup, but one player whose role is absolutely solidified is Backlund, who will once again centre the most responsible line for the Flames that will be responsible for taking on the opposing top line.

That's not to say that Backlund won't produce again however, as he's posted 606 points in 1,148 games thus far in his career, and given that he'll likely play alongside Joel Farabee and either Connor Zary or Samuel Honzek, the possibility for offensive production is certainly there.

With two years remaining on his deal, the Flames will continue to play Backlund in the role he finds himself most comfortable, so while the offense peaked in 2022/23 with 56 points, he raises the floor of those around him, and given the leadership needed around this young team, he'll once again be one of the most important players in Calgary this season.

Final Predictions for Backlund in 2026/27 (based on the assumption of 82 games of health): 16 goals, 30 assists, 46 points.