The Calgary Flames have a rich history with Swedish players, many of whom have left an indelible mark on the franchise. From dynamic offensive talents to reliable leaders, these players have contributed significantly to the Flames' success and have become fan favorites in Calgary. Here's a look at some of the best Swedish players to ever wear the Flaming C:
Håkan Loob
Håkan Loob is arguably the most successful Swedish player in Flames history. Drafted in the ninth round of the 1981 NHL Entry Draft, Loob didn't join the team until the 1983-84 season but quickly adapted to the North American game, scoring 30 goals and 55 points in 77 games as a rookie. His career reached its peak in the 1987-88 season when he tallied 50 goals and 106 points in 80 games, leading the team in scoring. Loob is the first Swedish player to score 50 goals in the NHL. He is also a member of the rare "Triple Gold Club," having won an Olympic gold medal, a World Championship gold medal, and the Stanley Cup. After winning the Stanley Cup with the Flames in 1989, Loob returned to Sweden.
Kent Nilsson
Kent Nilsson's career with the Flames was short but impactful. Like Loob, Nilsson began his professional career in the SHL before being drafted by both the NHL and WHA in 1976. He chose to play in the WHA with the Winnipeg Jets, winning two Avco World Trophies. In 1979, he joined the Atlanta Flames and immediately made an impact, scoring 40 goals and 93 points in 80 games in his first season. Nilsson's 131 points in the 1980-81 season remains a franchise record.
Mikael Backlund
Mikael Backlund has been a mainstay for the Calgary Flames for over a decade. Drafted in the first round of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, Backlund has become known for his two-way play, leadership, and longevity. He has played a team-high 1,046 games with the club, second only to Jarome Iginla in franchise history. Backlund ranks high in franchise history in several categories, including points (seventh), assists (seventh), and goals (ninth). He also holds the franchise record for faceoff wins.
Elias Lindholm
Elias Lindholm, acquired by the Flames in 2018, quickly became a key contributor. He had a career year in the 2021-22 season, scoring 42 goals and 82 points while playing on a dominant line with Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew Tkachuk. Lindholm was also a Selke Trophy nominee, recognizing his defensive prowess. After another productive season, he was traded to the Vancouver Canucks.
Rasmus Andersson
Rasmus Andersson has emerged as a key defenseman for the Flames. Drafted in the second round of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, Andersson has steadily improved his game, becoming a reliable presence on the blue line. He is known for his offensive skills, playmaking ability, and physical play.
These five players represent just a fraction of the talented Swedes who have played for the Calgary Flames. Their contributions to the team's success, both on and off the ice, have made them integral parts of Flames history.
