Flames forward Justin Kirkland out for season after knee surgery

The 28-year-old Kirkland joined the Flames on a league-minimum $775,000 contract this season, seemingly destined for the American Hockey League’s Calgary Wranglers. However, Kirkland was given an opportunity on the big club after Kevin Rooney was injured in the season-opener against Vancouver… and he hit it out the park.

His story was even more feel-good given that he suffered a bunch of serious injuries in a car accident in January 2023, during his tenure with the Anaheim Ducks, that nearly ended his career. (Postmedia’s Wes Gilbertson chatted with Kirkland about his experience early this season.)

Playing primarily on the fourth line, Kirkland emerged as a fantastic role player who could bring energy, whether at even strength or on the penalty kill, and was a sneaky-good option on the shootout. He posted two goals and six assists for eight points over 21 games with the Flames, and was two for three in the shootout. He left Friday’s game in Columbus due to injury, though it’s not quite clear when during the game he suffered his injury.

Kirkland joins Anthony Mantha as Flames forwards whose seasons have been ended prematurely due to knee surgery.

The Flames are back in action on Thursday when they host the St. Louis Blues.