3 Calgary Flames Who Probably Won't Be Back Next Season

The Calgary Flames have surprised the entire NHL so far this season. The team is exceeding expectations and continue to play a defense-first system that has resulted in a 15-7-6 record. While they will be active come the trade deadline in March, look for some more changes to follow in the offseason.

3 Flames Who Likely Aren't Back in 2022-23

Mikael Backlund: The Flames forward has struggled this season, recording only nine points in 28 games. He's signed through the 2023-24 season at $5.35 million annually, which is a bit rich considering the production. At 32 years old the interest level won't be ideal so the team will likely have to add something to the package to sweeten the deal for other clubs. It also doesn't help he submits a list of 10 teams he wants to avoid before each season. Regardless, look for Calgary to try and move on next summer.

Michael Stone: The Flames have a few right-handed defensemen locked up for the foreseeable future so don't expect to see Stone re-signed next summer. He's a serviceable depth defenseman but the team will likely look to upgrade from the 31-year-old or give one of their prospects a longer look next season. He's only appeared in two games so far this season and he's yet to produce much. In his five and a half years in Calgary his high is 10 points. The Flames need to move on.

Tyler Pitlick: The rugged winger signed a one-year deal in Calgary before this season and it hasn't worked out at all. He's only recorded two assists in 21 games and has gradually seen less and less ice-time. The Flames were hopeful he could help their third-line in a shut-down role, but were also hoping to see a little bit more production. One goal every 20 games would be nice. Look for the club to move on from Pitlick after the season, or perhaps even before.