The Calgary Flames, established in 1972 as the Atlanta Flames, relocated to Calgary in 1980 and have since become a significant franchise in the National Hockey League (NHL). The team's history is marked by memorable moments, talented players, and a passionate fanbase. Here's a look at some of the best to ever don the Flames jersey:
Jarome Iginla: Widely regarded as the greatest Flame of all time, Jarome Iginla is a "no-brainer" for the top spot. He leads the franchise in games played (1,219), goals (525), and points (1,095). Iginla's leadership as captain for nine seasons, combined with his scoring prowess and physical play, solidified his legacy in Calgary. His outstanding 2001-02 season saw him capture the Art Ross Trophy, the Rocket Richard Trophy, and the Lester B. Pearson Trophy. He was the Flames' leading scorer for 11 consecutive seasons, from 2000-01 to 2011-12.
Al MacInnis: A dominant force on the blue line, Al MacInnis spent 11 seasons with the Flames. Known for his booming slapshot and offensive capabilities, MacInnis was nearly a point-per-game player throughout his Calgary tenure. He recorded a career-high 103 points in the 1990-91 season. MacInnis won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player in the 1989 playoffs, leading the Flames to their only Stanley Cup victory with 31 points in 22 games. He ranks first in assists (609) for the Flames.
Theoren Fleury: Despite his small stature, Theo Fleury made a big impact on the Calgary Flames. Drafted in the eighth round of the 1987 NHL Entry Draft, Fleury quickly proved his doubters wrong, showcasing his offensive skill and feisty demeanor. He contributed to the Flames' Stanley Cup-winning team in 1989 and established himself as a top offensive threat and agitator. Fleury ranks second in goals (364) and points (830) for the Flames.
Miikka Kiprusoff: Acquired in a trade with the San Jose Sharks in 2003, Miikka Kiprusoff quickly became the Flames' starting goaltender and remained a mainstay for nearly a decade. While he didn't win a Stanley Cup, Kiprusoff is considered one of the franchise's best goalies.
Other Notable Flames:
The Calgary Flames have a rich history filled with talented players and memorable moments. These players have left an indelible mark on the franchise and continue to be celebrated by Flames fans. While the team has seen significant turnover in recent years, the legacy of these all-time greats serves as a reminder of the Flames' storied past and provides a benchmark for future generations.
