On March 28, 2013, the Calgary Flames traded Jarome Iginla, their long-time captain and franchise icon, to the Pittsburgh Penguins. The trade marked the end of an era for the Flames and the beginning of a new chapter for Iginla, who had spent 16 seasons in Calgary.
Iginla's departure was not entirely unexpected, as his contract was set to expire at the end of the 2012-13 season, and the Flames were in the midst of a rebuild. Despite the circumstances, it was still a difficult moment for Flames fans to see their captain leave. Iginla had become synonymous with the Flames, and his leadership, skill, and dedication had made him a beloved figure in Calgary.
In return for Iginla, the Flames received a 2013 first-round pick, Kenny Agostino, and Ben Hanowski from the Pittsburgh Penguins. The first-round pick was used to select Morgan Klimchuk. Unfortunately, none of these players managed to establish themselves as significant contributors to the Flames. Klimchuk played just one NHL game for the team. Hanowski played 16 games for the Flames, scoring one goal and three points. Agostino was a "tweener" player, frequently moving between the NHL and AHL, and appeared in 86 NHL games with eight goals and 30 points.
Iginla's time in Pittsburgh was short-lived, as the Penguins were eliminated in the second round of the playoffs by the Boston Bruins. He then signed a three-year deal with the Colorado Avalanche. Later, he was traded to the Los Angeles Kings, but he was never able to win a Stanley Cup. After his departure from the Flames, Iginla played 335 games, scoring 100 goals and 205 points. He ended his NHL career with 625 goals and 1,300 points in 1,554 games.
The trade is remembered as one of the most significant in Flames history, not just for the departure of Iginla, but also for the return the Flames received. While Iginla went on to play for other teams, he never reached the same heights he had in Calgary. The players the Flames acquired in the trade did not pan out as hoped, leaving many fans wondering what could have been.
Despite the disappointing return, Iginla's legacy in Calgary remains untarnished. He is still regarded as one of the greatest players to ever wear a Flames jersey, and his contributions to the team and the city will never be forgotten. The trade marked the end of an era, but it also served as a reminder of the impact one player can have on a franchise and its fans.
