League: NHL Sport: Hockey Country: United States Category: Breaking News

Mikael Backlund breaks franchise record for Flames in season opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 2, 2026, 2:43 AM

Last updated Oct 2, 2026

Mikael Backlund breaks franchise record for Flames in season opener

Summary

Mikael Backlund is set to break Jarome Iginla's franchise record for most season openers with the Calgary Flames during their game against the Seattle Kraken on October 2, 2026. Backlund will be playing in his 16th season opener, surpassing Iginla's 15. Backlund has played his entire NHL career with Calgary since being drafted 24th overall in 2007. Known for his leadership, he has consistently started seasons despite occasional injuries, marking a legacy within the organization as he approaches the 1,150-game milestone in his career.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Latest Updates

•Backlund breaks Iginla's record by playing in his 16th opener.
•The Flames play the Seattle Kraken in their first game of the season.
•Backlund has spent his entire NHL career with Calgary since 2007.
•He has over 600 career points with the Flames.
•Backlund won the King Clancy Memorial Trophy in 2022-23.

Latest Updates

2:43 AMYahoo Sports — Flames’ Mikael Backlund Breaks Jarome Iginla’s Historic Record

What they're saying

"
The Calgary Flames and Jarome Iginla go hand in hand. But on Thursday night, Mikael Backlund is going to break one of Iggy’s all-time franchise records when they open their 2026-27 NHL season. The Flames will be at home against the Seattle Kraken, and Backlund will break a record simply by taking the ice. Mikael […] The post Flames’ Mikael Backlund Breaks Jarome Iginla’s Historic Record appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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