Calgary Flames Face Uncertainty After Roster Overhaul

The Calgary Flames are facing an uncertain future after a significant roster overhaul, with captain Mikael Backlund being the only remaining player from the 2022 playoff team.

What happened to the 2022 playoff team?

The Flames' last playoff game was on May 26, 2022, against the Edmonton Oilers, resulting in a 5-4 overtime loss.

Johnny Gaudreau signed with the Columbus Blue Jackets on July 13, 2022, for seven years and $68 million.

Erik Gubranson agreed to a deal with the Blue Jackets on the same day for four years and $16 million.

Why did the players leave?

Calle Järnkok left the club on July 15, 2022, agreeing to a four-year deal worth $8.4 million with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Matthew Tkachuk was traded to the Florida Panthers on July 22, 2022, after informing the Flames he would not re-sign.

What's the current state of the team?

The Calgary Flames are currently standing 14th in the Western Conference with a 34-39 record, on a W1 streak as of July 6, 2026.

Mikael Backlund is approaching his 19th season with the team, making him the longest-tenured Calgary player in franchise history.

Trevor Lewis re-signed as a free agent in July 2022 but returned to the Los Angeles Kings on a one-year deal in July 2023.

Milan Lucic returned to the Boston Bruins on a one-year deal in July 2023.

What's next for the Calgary Flames?

The team will look to rebuild and make a push for the playoffs in the upcoming season.

And with Backlund leading the team, they will hope to turn their fortunes around.

But for now, the Flames are focused on the present and making the most of their current roster.

So the question remains, can the Calgary Flames make a comeback and become a competitive team again?

The answer will have to wait, as the team continues to navigate the challenges of the NHL.